What is the expected effect of using incentive spirometry in a client with pneumonia?

Using incentive spirometry in a client with pneumonia primarily aims to improve lung expansion. This therapeutic device encourages deep inhalation, which helps to promote alveolar inflation and prevents atelectasis, a common complication in patients with respiratory infections like pneumonia. By taking deeper breaths, the patient can enhance ventilation in the lungs, improve the distribution of air, and facilitate better gas exchange.

In patients with pneumonia, lung expansion can be compromised due to inflammation, fluid accumulation, or mucous plugs. Incentive spirometry encourages slow, sustained inhalation, which promotes optimal lung function and enhances overall respiratory mechanics. Improved lung expansion can lead to better lung compliance and reduced work of breathing, making it easier for the patient to breathe.

While enhancing oxygen saturation and reducing respiratory rate are important aspects of respiratory care, the primary objective of incentive spirometry is to specifically improve lung expansion. As for reducing chest pain, while better lung expansion might indirectly relieve some discomfort due to better ventilation, it is not the primary effect of this intervention.