National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

If a patient feels lightheaded while using an incentive spirometer, what is the best recommendation?

1. Lie down while utilizing the spirometer

2. Take a rest and limit usage to ten times per hour

3. Try using the spirometer more frequently

4. Take a deep breath for the next attempt

The correct answer is: Take a rest and limit usage to ten times per hour

The recommendation to take a rest and limit usage to ten times per hour is appropriate in the context of a patient feeling lightheaded while using an incentive spirometer. Feeling lightheaded could indicate that the patient is overexerting themselves, possibly due to hyperventilation or fatigue during the maneuver. By recommending that the patient take a rest, it allows their body to recover and helps to prevent further feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. Limiting the usage to a specific number of times per hour provides a structured approach that balances the need for pulmonary function improvement with the patient's current tolerance level. This method encourages safe use of the device while ensuring that the patient is not overexerting themselves, which could exacerbate the sensation of lightheadedness. The other choices might not adequately address the immediate concern of lightheadedness. Lying down could provide temporary relief, but it doesn't teach the patient to manage their use of the device effectively. Trying to use the spirometer more frequently might increase the risk of discomfort or dizziness. Taking a deep breath for the next attempt could also lead to hyperventilation or discomfort if the patient is already feeling lightheaded, thus potentially worsening their condition.