National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which airway clearance intervention should be used for a patient struggling to clear the airway post-CVA?

1. Coughing

2. Incentive spirometer

3. Postural drainage

4. Huffing

The correct answer is: Huffing

Huffing is an effective airway clearance technique, particularly for patients who may struggle with traditional coughing methods. This technique involves taking a deep breath and then exhaling forcefully with an open mouth while keeping the throat open, which can help to mobilize secretions from the lungs without the high intrathoracic pressure that can occur with a strong cough. In the context of a patient recovering from a cerebrovascular accident (CVA or stroke), the ability to generate an effective cough may be compromised due to weakness or coordination issues. Huffing permits the patient to clear secretions with less strain, making it easier for those who have respiratory muscle weakness or difficulty coordinating their breathing patterns. Using huffing can also help prevent airway obstruction and minimize fatigue, which may be beneficial for stroke patients who often have limited energy reserves. This approach can assist in maintaining adequate ventilation and reducing the risk of pneumonia, which can be a concern in this population due to impaired swallowing and potential aspiration. Other interventions, while useful in different scenarios, may not be as suitable for this specific patient group. For example, coughing can be ineffective if the patient does not have the capacity to generate sufficient force. Incentive spirometry primarily encourages deep breathing but does not facilitate mucous