THAIRapy Vest
The ThAIRapy Vest® is a therapy that helps with the removal of mucus in the lungs. The ThAIRapy® system includes a fitted vest, an air pulse delivery machine, and flexible hoses.
The vest is custom fitted and fits over the entire chest (like a life jacket). The flexible hoses help to link the vest to the air delivery device. When the air delivery device is turned on, it forces air into the vest until it is full. Then the air causes the vest to pulsate around the entire chest. Mucus is forced from the bottom to the top of the lungs so that it is easier to cough it out.
Technique
- Plug in the power cord.
- Put on custom vest and snap all of the attachments.
- Connect the tubing from the air delivery device to the vest.
- Push the power button in, to the “on” position. Allow the air delivery device to warm up until the yellow wait light goes out.
- Adjust the pressure control to the level the physician has prescribed.
- Adjust the pulse rate or frequency control to the lowest setting that the physician has prescribed for you.
- Set the timer to the prescribed time setting.
- Start the pulsations by pressing and holding the hand/foot control. Continue pulsating until the timer goes off. Take at least one deep breath every minute.
- Release the hand/foot control and perform a “huff” cough. To huff cough, take a deep breath and hold it for 1-3 seconds. Then force the air out or your lungs and say the word “huff” at the same time.
- Adjust the frequency control to the next prescribed frequency and repeat steps 4-7 until all selected frequencies have been utilized.
Settings
Below are the ThAIRapy® vest settings your doctor has prescribed for you.
Pressure: |
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1st Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
2nd Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
3rd Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
4th Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
5th Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
6th Setting |
Frequency: |
Time: |
Maintenance & Cleaning
Once a week wipe down the vest and air pulse delivery system with a household disinfectant. The filter on the back of the air pulse delivery system should have all dust removed weekly as well.
Equipment
If you have questions or problems regarding your equipment, contact UW Home Health at 608-203-2273.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 06/20/2012
Copyright © 06/20/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5464
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