How to Use an Incentive Spirometer

After surgery, since you won’t be moving around like you usually do, you’ll need to exercise your lungs to keep them healthy. Using a simple device, called an incentive spirometer, to do breathing exercises will help keep your lungs active while you get well.

You will start using your incentive spirometer in the hospital after you wake up from surgery, but you will continue using it when you leave the hospital. You will use your incentive spirometer the same way whether you are in the hospital or at home. The goal of this device is to help you breathe in deeply and steadily.

If you feel dizzy or in pain while doing your breathing exercises, tell your care team right away, or you can take your pain medication if recommended by your care team.

It’s really important to use your breathing device every hour. If you have any questions about how to use your device, let your care team know.