Question:
Where can you get an incentive spirometer... I have surgery in two weeks...

Where can you get an incentive spirometer...I have surgery in two weeks and would like to get one to strengthen my lungs?    — Jenny A. (posted on October 30, 2002)

October 29, 2002
You will get one in the hospital. IF you want one before surgery, most medical supply places will sell them. CAll around.
   — Vicki L.

October 29, 2002
I was going to get one from a medical supply before surgery to "practice". I have COPD -lung disorder and was worried. I never got one- was given one at hospital and barely used it. Maybe you should ask your doc anyway - if you have "problems" in that area.
   — charlene M.

October 29, 2002
I got one during my pre-op appointment, about 2 weeks before surgery. I had to practice every day up until the day of surgery. Your respitory therapist should provide you with one, if you can not find one you should start doing deep breathing exercises several times a day. This is a major surgery and you do not need any complications. Best of luck to you!!
   — stacjean

October 30, 2002
Buy balloons and blow them up about 5-6 times a day. It works just as good. Good Luck!
   — Dana B.

October 30, 2002
I got mine when I went into the hospital before surgery. After surgery, my pulmonologist came in and visited me. He showed me how to use it and when I am supposed to use it to remove any fluid in my chest. They might take a chest X Ray in the hospital. If they do, make sure they don't leave you for dead like they did me.
   — Lawrence R.