Respiratory - Using your Sputum Clearance Device

How does it work?

The device causes vibration and resistance to the airflow which is then transmitted to your lungs.

• The resistance to the airflow will help keep your airways open to get air behind the sputum and move it upwards
• The vibration dislodges the secretions from the walls of the airways and moves them upwards to the larger airways, where it can be coughed out

The device contains a weighted ball, which rises and falls when you breathe into it, creating the vibrations.

How do I use it?

Before you start:

• Make sure you gather supplies together (water, tissues)
• Relax and assume correct posture and position (depends on device being used)
• You may find taking your nebuliser or blue inhaler before you start will help

How to use the device?

First Step

1. Slowly breathe in, slightly more than a normal breath but do not fill the lungs completely.
2. Hold breath for 2-3 seconds.
3. Place the device in your mouth with a good seal around the mouthpiece.
4. Breathe out through the device at a fast rate but not too forceful for at least 3-5 seconds. You should be able to feel the vibrations on your chest.
5. Do not empty your lungs completely.
6. Try to keep your cheeks held in to maximise the vibration in your lungs.
7. Try to suppress your cough.
8. Repeat for 5-10 breaths.
9. Change the angle of the device up or down to feel the most vibrations on your chest.

Second Step

10.    Repeat Step 1-3 above
11.    Breathe out forcefully through the device as completely as possible.
12.    Repeat forced manoeuvre once or twice more.
13.    Try cough/huff to clear secretions or complete steps 1 - 9 again

Cleaning Instructions

As your device will be exposed to saliva during use, we recommend that your device is cleaned after use.

Remove the mouthpiece, unscrew the cover, and remove the ball and internal cone. Wash all parts in soapy water, rinse with clean water, dry thoroughly and re-assemble.

Once a week we recommend that the device is cleansed using approved cleansing tablets. You can also use a solution that is intended for use on equipment that contacts the mouth, such as that used for babies’ bottles.

How often should I use the device?

Use the device twice daily or as directed by your physiotherapist.

If you are unwell, you may need to use it more often, but may need to reduce the number of breaths you do so you don’t get too tired.

Precautions

If you start coughing up fresh blood or are diagnosed with a pneumothorax, STOP using your device, seek medical advice and contact your physiotherapist for ongoing secretion management advice.

If you become lightheaded using the device, stop the exercise and breathe calmly until the feeling stops.

To reduce the feeling of light-headedness, have a short rest between each breath and try not to breathe out as hard. If it continues, speak to your physiotherapist for advice.

Other things that may help sputum clearance

• Drink plenty of clear water (unless you have been told you are on a fluid restriction)
• Always clear your chest in a morning. A hot drink may help you if you wake feeling dry
• Do not clear your chest immediately after eating a meal
• If your phlegm changes colour, take a sample to your GP
• If you have questions about your condition, contact your doctor, nurse or physiotherapist

Contact details

Email: respiratoryphysio@nca.nhs.uk
Telephone: 0161 206 5321