4. Blow the air in your lungs out, and
then close your lips tightly around the
mouthpiece. Breathe in slowly and
deeply, keeping the blue indicator
between the arrows. This will give your
lungs the most exercise.
5. When you can’t take in any more air,
hold your breath for 6 seconds. Take
the mouthpiece out and slowly breathe
out.
6. Repeat ______ times every ______
hours, or as often as your nurse directs
you. This is also a good exercise to
continue at home until you are back to
your usual activity level.
Deep Breathing and Coughing
This is another way to help prevent pneumonia after surgery. Your nurse will
explain how and when to do deep breathing and coughing.
1. Take 2 slow, deep breaths in through your nose and breathe out slowly through
your mouth.
2. Take in a third slow, deep breath through your nose.
3. Splint your chest and cough as you breathe out.
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