Which therapy should a respiratory therapist recommend for a recovering post-operative patient with difficulty clearing secretions?

• A. Deep suctioning
• B. Manual chest physiotherapy
• C. Instruction on deep breathing and coughing techniques
• D. Mucolytics

Answer: (C)

For a recovering post-operative patient who is having difficulty clearing secretions, recommending instruction on deep breathing and coughing techniques is essential for several reasons. These techniques help to expand the lungs, increase diaphragmatic movement, and facilitate the mobilization of secretions. By deep breathing, the patient can improve lung expansion and oxygenation, while effective coughing assists in clearing mucus from the airways.

Additionally, these techniques are non-invasive and can be performed by the patient independently, thus encouraging active participation in their recovery process. They are particularly beneficial for post-operative patients who may have diminished respiratory function due to anesthesia or pain, which can inhibit their natural coughing reflex.

In contrast, deep suctioning might be too invasive and can increase the risk of complications like infection or airway trauma, making it less suitable for a patient who is recovering and may not require such aggressive intervention. Manual chest physiotherapy, while beneficial in some contexts, may not fully empower the patient to manage their own secretions effectively. Mucolytics can help thin secretions but do not address the need for active coughing and deep breathing to clear them from the lungs.