A multidisciplinary audit of manual hyperinflation technique (sigh breath) in a neurosurgical intensive care unit

Manual hyperinflation of the lungs (sigh breath) is a technique which is used to deliver a large volume of gas to the lungs. The purpose of this technique is to either maintain or improve the respiratory status of the patient. However, the volume of gas delivered is rarely measured, and therefore there is little evidence that hyperinflation occurs. Through the process of audit staff were able to examine the technique critically and improve it. With the addition of measurement tools a defined standard was developed against which performance was measured. To explore the effects of a particular technique it is essential that the delivery of that technique is standardised. This audit has enabled staff to achieve a standard technique and create a position from which research into its effects can now take place.