RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Clinical Effectiveness of Incentive Spirometry for the Prevention of Postoperative Pulmonary Complications
JF Respiratory Care
FD American Association for Respiratory Care
SP 347
OP 352
DO 10.4187/respcare.05679
VO 63
IS 3
A1 Adam E M Eltorai
A1 Ashley L Szabo
A1 Valentin Antoci, Jr
A1 Corey E Ventetuolo
A1 Jack A Elias
A1 Alan H Daniels
A1 Dean R Hess
YR 2018
UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/63/3/347.abstract
AB Incentive spirometry (IS) is commonly prescribed to reduce pulmonary complications, despite limited evidence to support its benefits and a lack of consensus on optimal protocols for its use. Although numerous studies and meta-analyses have examined the effects of IS on patient outcomes, there is no clear evidence establishing its benefit to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications. Clinical practice guidelines advise against the routine use of IS in postoperative care. Until evidence of benefit from well-designed clinical trials becomes available, the routine use of IS in postoperative care is not supported by high levels of evidence.