What is a recommended device for patients with a weak cough to help remove secretions?

The insufflation-exsufflation device is specifically designed to assist patients with weak cough reflexes in effectively clearing secretions from their airways. This device operates by delivering a positive pressure breath to inflate the lungs, followed by rapidly switching to a negative pressure to create a "cough-like" effect. This maneuver helps to mobilize and expel secretions, which is crucial for patients who may not be able to generate a strong enough cough on their own.

In contrast, an incentive spirometer is primarily used to encourage deep breathing to expand the lungs and prevent atelectasis, rather than actively clearing secretions. A positive pressure ventilator provides respiratory support but may not be tailored specifically for secretion management. Chest physiotherapy includes techniques like percussion and postural drainage, which help mobilize secretions, but it relies on the patient's ability to cough, making it less effective for those with significant cough weakness compared to an insufflation-exsufflation device.