Which postoperative measures most effectively prevent atelectasis in a patient who is reluctant to ambulate?

• A. Encourage incentive spirometry and chest physiotherapy
• B. Limit fluids
• C. Bed rest with no activity
• D. Skip breathing exercises

Answer: (A)

Preventing postoperative atelectasis when ambulation is limited hinges on promoting lung expansion and clearing airway secretions. Incentive spirometry provides guided, sustained deep breaths that expand the alveoli, reopen collapsed areas, and improve ventilation. Chest physiotherapy helps loosen and mobilize secretions so they can be cleared, reducing mucus plugging that can block airways. Together, these approaches directly address the issues behind atelectasis: shallow breathing and mucus retention.

Why the other options aren’t suitable: limiting fluids doesn’t actively improve lung expansion and can thicken secretions, making clearance harder. Bed rest with no activity further decreases ventilation and mucus clearance, increasing atelectasis risk. skipping breathing exercises removes a simple, effective method to promote lung inflation and prevent collapse.