| Use |
| Assure proper setting of the resistance dial on the end of the Acapella® valve. Start at the mid-resistance point and rotate toward + or − to increase or decrease resistance as tolerated. Adjust resistance so that you can exhale for at least 3 seconds |
| Sit upright although various positions may be required for optimal drainage of secretions |
| Take in a bigger than normal breath through the nose and hold for 2 to 3 seconds |
| Place the mouthpiece in the mouth and seal lips tightly around it |
| Exhale actively (NOT forcefully and keeping the cheeks flat and firm) for at least 3 times longer than it took to inhale and until the flutter sound ceases |
| Repeat 10 times, then perform 3 huff coughs, followed by a big cough to bring out the sputum. These 10 exhalations and 3 huff coughs is one set |
| Repeat the above set 2 to 4 times per day |
| Cleaning |
| Clean the mouthpiece at the end of the day in water and liquid dish detergent, rinse, and dry thoroughly overnight |
| Disinfect once weekly by removing the mouthpiece and soak in 70% rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol for 5 minutes or 3% hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and drain/dry in a vertical position |
