Manual hyperinflation and the role of physical therapy in intensive care and emergency units

• Main Authors: Rafael Vinícius Santos Cruz (Author), Fabiana do Socorro da Silva Dias de Andrade (Author), Pollyanna Dórea Gonzaga de Menezes (Author), Bruno Oliveira Gonçalves (Author), Robson da Silva Almeida (Author), Anderson Reis Santos (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Editora Champagnat.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

Abstract Introduction: Although manual hyperinflation (MHI) is a physical therapy technique commonly used in intensive care and emergency units, there is little consensus about its use. Objective: To investigate the knowledge of physical therapists working in intensive care and emergency units about manual hyperinflation. Methods: Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires on manual hyperinflation. Data collection took place between September 2014 and January 2015, in Itabuna and Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil. Results: The study sample was composed of 32 physical therapists who had between 4 months and 10 years working experience. All respondents affirmed that they used the technique in their professional practice. However, only 34.4% reported it to be a routine practice. 90.6% stated that the most common patient position during manual hyperinflation is "supine". Participants were almost unanimous (93.8%) in citing secretion removal and cough stimulation as perceived benefits of MHI. High peak airway pressure was identified as being a precaution to treatment with MHI by 84.4% of participants, whilst 100% of the sample agreed that an undrained pneumothorax was a contraindication to MHI. Conclusion: The most common answers to the questionnaire were: supine position during MHI; secretion removal and cough stimulation as perceived benefits; high peak airway pressure as a precaution; and an undrained pneumothorax as a contraindication.

Item Description

1980-5918
10.1590/1980-5918.030.s01.ao23