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Comparison of the Feasibility of Respiratory Exercises in Postoperative Patients: An Intensive Care Study
Kadriye Aldemir Atmaca1, Yeşim Dikmen Aydin2, Muharrem Aşudu3
1Health High School of Susehri, Nursing Department of Surgery Disease Nursing, Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey.
Background:
Postoperative pulmonary complications are a major cause of morbidity following surgery. Deep breathing, coughing and incentive spirometry are commonly used to prevent these complications; however, the feasibility of these methods may vary between patients.
Aim:
This study aimed to compare respiratory exercises performed during the first three postoperative days in terms of pain level, patient- and nurse-assessed ease of performance and frequency of application.
Study Design:
This descriptive comparative study was conducted in a surgical intensive care unit in Türkiye. Pain levels were assessed on postoperative days (POD) 1, 2 and 3 at baseline and following deep breathing, incentive spirometry and coughing exercises. Exercise feasibility was evaluated by patients and a nurse researcher. Data were analysed using the Friedman test.
Results:
A total of 44 patients were included in the study. Pain levels differed significantly between measurements on POD1 (χ2 = 51.93, p < 0.001) and POD2 (χ2 = 18.63, p < 0.001), with the highest pain scores observed following coughing. No significant difference was found on POD3 (χ2 = 6.07, p = 0.108). Significant differences were observed in patient- and nurse-assessed ease of performance across all postoperative days (all p < 0.001). Deep breathing was rated as the easiest exercise to perform, whereas incentive spirometry was rated as the most difficult. The frequency of exercise increased over time.
Conclusions:
Respiratory exercises differ in terms of pain and ease of performance during the early postoperative period. Deep breathing appears to be the most feasible and best-tolerated method, whereas coughing is associated with greater pain.
Relevance To Clinical Practice:
Prioritising deep breathing exercises and supporting coughing exercises with effective pain management may improve adherence to postoperative respiratory care. Individualised planning of respiratory exercises may enhance patient participation and optimise postoperative nursing care.
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