Article

Breathing exercises after cardiac surgery are often performed in a
sitting position. It is unknown whether oxygenation would be better in the
standing position. The aim of this study was to evaluate oxygenation and
subjective breathing ability during sitting vs standing performance of deep
breathing exercises on the second day after cardiac surgery. METHODS: Patients
undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (n = 189) were randomized to sitting
(controls) or standing. Both groups performed 3 x 10 deep breaths with a positive
expiratory pressure device. Peripheral oxygen saturation was measured before,
directly after, and 15 min after the intervention. Subjective breathing ability,
blood pressure, heart rate, and pain were assessed. RESULTS: Oxygenation improved
significantly in the standing group compared with controls directly after the
breathing exercises (p < 0.001) and after 15 min rest (p = 0.027). The standing
group reported better deep breathing ability compared with controls (p = 0.004).
A slightly increased heart rate was found in the standing group (p = 0.047).
CONCLUSION: After cardiac surgery, breathing exercises with positive expiratory
pressure, performed in a standing position, significantly improved oxygenation
and subjective breathing ability compared with sitting performance. Performance
of breathing exercises in the standing position is feasible and could be a
valuable treatment for patients with postoperative hypoxaemia.

Langue : ANGLAIS