What is the primary reason for using incentive spirometry post-operatively?

Incentive spirometry is utilized post-operatively primarily to prevent respiratory complications. After surgery, particularly abdominal or thoracic, patients may experience reduced lung expansion due to pain, sedation, or the effects of anesthesia. This can lead to shallow breathing, which increases the risk of atelectasis (collapse of part of the lung) and pneumonia.

Using an incentive spirometer encourages patients to take deep breaths, thereby promoting optimal lung expansion and facilitating the clearing of secretions. By motivating patients to breathe deeply, incentive spirometry helps maintain respiratory function, improve oxygenation, and mobilize secretions, thus significantly reducing the likelihood of respiratory complications following surgery.

Other options, such as preventing the loss of muscle mass, reducing blood clot risk, or preventing pooling of blood in the lower legs, do not directly relate to the function of incentive spirometry and would be addressed through different interventions. The focus of incentive spirometry is specific to respiratory health and improving lung function in the post-operative setting.