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The cough assist helps to clear secretions by applying a positive pressure to fill the lungs, then quickly switching to a negative pressure to produce a high expiratory flow rate and simulate a cough.[2] It is known as ‘manual insufflation-exsufflation’ and can be applied via a mask, mouthpiece, endotracheal or tracheostomy tube.[3] It is most useful in patients with an ineffective cough due to muscle weakness, in conditions such as muscular dystrophies, myasthenia gravis, SMA, Spinal cord lesions, MND etc.[4][5][6] In conditions such as spinal cord injury or neuromuscular disease, an individual may require assistance to cough using manual techniques or a medical device.[7] [8]
Indication[edit | edit source]
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Contraindications[edit | edit source]
[9] Precautions[edit | edit source]
[9] Cautions[edit | edit source]
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Setting Up the Cough Assist[edit | edit source]
First, set the expiratory pressure
Next, set the inspiratory pressure
[11] Set the Flow Rate
Finally, set the cycle timing
Technique/Treatment[edit | edit source]
Cough Assist Device Troubleshooting[edit | edit source]Please also see non-invasive ventilation for more information on positive pressure devices Resources[edit | edit source]http://www.icid.salisbury.nhs.uk/ClinicalManagement/SpinalInjuries/Pages/AssistedCoughing.aspx References[edit | edit source]
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