Incentive spirometer usage sequence

• A. Inhale rapidly through mouthpiece, hold 1 second
• B. Inhale deeply and slowly through mouthpiece, hold 3-5 seconds, exhale normally
• C. Exhale quickly into device
• D. Breathe through nose only

Answer: (B)

Incentive spirometry is designed to promote slow, deep breaths to expand the alveoli and prevent postoperative atelectasis. The correct sequence is to inhale deeply and slowly through the mouthpiece, hold the breath for about 3–5 seconds to maximize alveolar expansion, then exhale normally. This slow, held inhalation recruits more lung units and stabilizes them before a gentle exhale. Breathing rapidly or exhaling into the device won’t achieve the controlled, maximal inflation needed, and breathing through the nose doesn’t provide an effective seal around the mouthpiece.