Therapeutic technique in which a client is directed to assume a variety of positions that facilitate the drainage of secretions in the lobes of the lungs or the bronchial passages.
A procedure for removing matter from infected lungs by making the person lie down with the head lower than the feet, so that he or she can cough more easily.
A physical-therapy technique used for patients with cystic fibrosis and other kinds of disorders that obstruct the air passages. The patient’s chest is “pounded” to dislodge mucus, and the body is positioned so that gravity will help the mucus drain from the body.
Positioning of the body to allow for removal of mucus from the airway such that it is facilitated by the forces of gravity; often accompanied by percussion to break secretions loose.
A form of respiratory therapy in which special positioning of the body allows mucus to drain from the lungs. Postural drainage is used to provide relief to people who produce excessive mucus as a result of conditions including cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and lung abscess.
A mineral involved in electrical and cellular functions in the body. Potassium is an electrolyte involved in the regulation of water and acid- base balance. Potassium also helps in protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, building of muscle, and normal growth processes. The most common problems associated with potassium deficiency are hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and fatigue. Potassium supplements should be taken only by prescription and can be life-threatening.
Facilitation of the drainage of secretions from dilated bronchi of the lungs. The patient lies on an inclined plane, head downwards, and is encouraged to cough up as much secretion from the lungs as possible. The precise position depends on which part of the lungs is affected. It may need to be carried out for up to three hours daily in divided periods. It is of particular value in bronchiectasis and lung abscess.
A passive airway clearance technique in which patients are positioned so that gravity will assist the removal of secretions from specific lobes of the lung, bronchi, or lung cavities. It can be used for patients with pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, inhaled foreign bodies, before surgery for lobectomy, or in any patient having difficulty with retained secretions. A side effect of the treatment in some patients is gastroesophageal reflux.
Postural drainage refers to the technique employed to facilitate the drainage of secretions from the bronchial tubes and lungs. This process involves positioning the body in a way that allows the secretions to flow into the trachea or windpipe.
A method that facilitates the drainage of sputum (mucus) or other bodily secretions from the lungs, aimed at clearing the airways and consequently improving breathing.
Postural drainage is a therapeutic technique employed to address conditions such as cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis, both of which affect the lungs. In this method, the individual positions themselves face-down or on their side, with the head positioned lower than the chest. This orientation leverages gravity to facilitate the natural drainage of secretions into the trachea (windpipe), which can subsequently be expelled through coughing. Additionally, gently tapping the person’s chest with cupped hands can aid in loosening viscous secretions.