Paediatric Nursing (PAED)
CHEST PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR A CHILD
Techniques to help clear secretions from lungs including percussion, vibration, and postural drainage.
Purpose
- Mobilize secretions
- Improve ventilation
- Prevent atelectasis
- Enhance cough effectiveness
Indications
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis
- Pneumonia
- Atelectasis
- Neuromuscular weakness
Equipment
- Percussion cups or hands
- Pillows for positioning
- Suction equipment
- Oxygen if needed
- Stethoscope
Preparation
- Schedule away from meals
- Position equipment
- Explain to child/family
Procedure steps
- Assess lung sounds
- Explain procedure
- Position for drainage
- Perform percussion
- Apply vibration
- Encourage coughing
- Suction if needed
- Reassess
- Document treatment
Precautions
- Avoid over bony prominences
- Monitor tolerance
- Time around meals
- Use appropriate force
Aftercare
- Encourage rest
- Provide fluids
- Assess effectiveness
- Document response
Nursing considerations
- Modify for age/condition
- Use play therapy
- Coordinate with respiratory therapy
Patient education
- Teach home techniques
- Explain importance
- Demonstrate positioning
Documentation
- Areas treated
- Duration
- Secretions cleared
- Patient tolerance
References and further reading
Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.
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