Which airway clearance technique is most appropriate for patients recovering from surgical procedures involving the chest or abdomen?

The Active Cycle of Breathing (ACB) is the most appropriate airway clearance technique for patients recovering from surgical procedures involving the chest or abdomen because it is designed to aid in the effective clearance of secretions while minimizing discomfort and exertion. ACB includes a sequence of techniques that facilitate breathing control, deep inhalation, and huffing, which can help expand the lungs and clear mucus without requiring excessive effort from the patient.

This method is particularly beneficial for post-surgical patients who may have reduced lung capacity or limited mobility due to pain or surgical restrictions. It enables patients to actively participate in their own airway clearance process, which can empower them and encourage good breathing practices while promoting lung expansion and preventing complications such as atelectasis.

Other techniques, while valuable in specific contexts, may not be as suitable for this patient population. For instance, manual chest therapy may involve external forces applied to the chest and can be uncomfortable, particularly after surgery. High-frequency chest wall oscillation uses mechanical devices that could be less tolerable for patients who are still experiencing pain. Autogenic drainage, although effective in managing secretions, requires a level of breath control and capacity that may not be attainable immediately after abdominal or thoracic surgery.

Overall, ACB strikes