Assisted Cough - Buffalo Occupational Therapy

How do you perform an assisted cough?

An assisted cough can be performed sitting up or lying down depending on the context of the situation.

Why would an occupational therapy practitioner need to know this?

Respiratory Health Maintenance:

- Many patients, particularly those with neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or muscular dystrophy, may have weakened respiratory muscles. Assisted cough techniques help clear secretions from the airways, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and improving overall respiratory function.

Prevention of Complications:

- Inability to effectively clear secretions can lead to complications such as pneumonia, atelectasis, or chronic respiratory failure. Knowing how to perform assisted cough techniques can help prevent these complications.

Supporting Safe Swallowing and Eating:

- For patients with dysphagia or other swallowing disorders, assisted cough techniques can be essential in managing aspiration risks. By helping to clear the airway, these techniques support safer eating and drinking practices.

Enhancing Functional Independence:

- By incorporating respiratory management into therapy, practitioners can help patients achieve greater independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) by maintaining their respiratory health.

Holistic Approach to Care:

- Occupational therapy takes a holistic approach to patient care. Understanding and applying assisted cough techniques fits into this approach by addressing all aspects of a patient's health, including respiratory function, which can impact their overall well-being and ability to participate in meaningful activities.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

- Occupational therapists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team. Knowledge of assisted cough techniques allows them to collaborate more effectively with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, respiratory therapists, and nurses, ensuring comprehensive patient care.

Patient and Caregiver Education:

- Occupational therapists are also educators. They can teach patients and caregivers how to perform assisted cough techniques safely and effectively, empowering them to manage respiratory health at home and reducing hospital readmissions.

Acute Care and Rehabilitation Settings:

- In acute care or rehabilitation settings, occupational therapists may encounter patients with sudden declines in respiratory function. Being proficient in assisted cough techniques allows them to provide immediate and appropriate care, supporting overall recovery and rehabilitation goals.