TABLE 2.
Respiratory management in SCI/D
| Simple interventions | Complex interventions |
|---|---|
| Moisten and loosen secretions | |
| Combination bronchodilators | Combination bronchodilators |
| Nebulized normal saline | Nebulized hypertonic saline |
| Flutter valve | Nebulized acetylcysteine |
| Percussion and postural drainage | High frequency chest wall oscillation vest |
| Remove secretions | |
|---|---|
| Airway suctioning with directional catheter | Mechanical insufflation/exsufflation |
| Manually assisted cough (“quad cough”) | Bronchoscopy |
| Decrease atelectasis | |
|---|---|
| Incentive spirometry a and deep breathing | Positive‐expiratory pressure devicesa |
| Abdominal binder (used while seated) | Positive airway pressure systems |
a
Patients with tetraplegia and limited hand function may need assistance using the devices.