Effectiveness of Preoperative Breathing Exercises on Postoperative Lung Function Outcomes for Patients with Cardiac Surgery
abstract: Background: Cardiac surgery involves measurable changes in lung functions in nearly all the patients. Major decline in pulmonary function Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) is observed on the first day after surgery. Several measures have been proposed to reduce these complications and improve oxygenation and hemodynamic indices such use of incentive spirometry (IS) and deep breathing exercises (DBEs). Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effect of preoperative breathing exercises combination on lung function outcomes postoperatively in patients with cardiac surgery. Methods and Materials: Quasi-experimental design study conducted in 75 patients planned to undergo cardiac surgery divided into; intervention group with 38 participants and control group with 37 participants. The intervention group received preoperative breathing exercises combination and control group received postoperative routine exercises only. All patients with on pump (CABG, valve, and CABG and valve) surgeries. Results: Patients in the intervention group had statistically significance related to improve lung function (all p≤0.002) and postoperative oxygenation, reduce mechanical ventilation period (p=0.011), and ICU length of stay (p= 0.002). Conclusion: Preoperative use of incentive spirometer and diaphragmatic breathing was an effective method for improving lung function. Also, improve oxygenation, reduce mechanical ventilation and ICU stay length Recommendations: Preoperative nursing management should incorporate breathing exercises to enhance lung function in cardiac surgery patients. Instructive spirometers and diaphragmatic breathing should be available preoperatively in surgical units for patients undergoing cardiac surgery, with nurses providing guidance sessions to improve lung function.