Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP)
What is Positive Expiratory Pressure?
Positive Expiratory Pressure, or PEP, is a small device that a patient exhales into, using a mask. PEP is also called PEP Therapy, PEP Mask or TheraPEP.
How does PEP work?
The PEP device creates pressure in the lungs and keeps your airways from closing. The air flowing through the PEP device helps move the mucus into the larger airway. A Huff Cough will help move the mucus out of the airways,
How do you use PEP?
Follow these steps when using PEP:
- Sit up straight with your elbows resting on a table.
- Take slightly deeper breaths than normal for 1 – 2 minutes.
- Take a large, steady breath (just slightly more then a normal breath) through the mask attached to PEP.
- Hold your breath for two - three seconds.
- Breathe out through the mask into the PEP device to create pressure 10-20 cm H2O. Breathe out for 4-5 seconds until just beyond a normal breath.
- Repeat 15 times (1 cycle). Keep the mask sealed around your mouth and nose throughout the cycle.
- At end of a cycle, remove the mask and perform 2 – 3 huff coughs.
- Follow this with 1 (or more) regular coughs to clear the mucus from the large airways.
- Rest for 1 – 2 minutes while you do the controlled breathing technique.
Repeat the entire process for 6 cycles or a maximum of 30 minutes.
A mouthpiece can be used with nose clips in place.
How do I clean the PEP Device?
After each treatment:
- Store on a clean paper towel to air dry
You should not rinse or disinfect the white tubing or the white/blue pressure manometer cone.
The outside of the manometer can be wiped down, but should not be taken apart or placed in water.
Every day:
- Clean with mild soap and rinse with sterile water
- Air dry on a clean paper towel
- Disinfect
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