Mnemonics... Risk factors for Atelectasis

Here is another round of atelectasis based mnemonics...

The 5 Ps - Risk factors for atelectasis

• Plump
• Pensioner
• Pain
• Pulmonary
• Pollution

Plump - Those with BMI >27

Pensioner - Age >60

Pain - Upper abdominal or thoracic surgery causing pain leading to lack of deep breathing

Pulmonary - COPD

Pollution - smokers

The 6 Ps - Management of atelectasis

• Position
• Pain management
• Prompt mobilisation
• Puffing air
• Positive Pressure
• Purge

Position - keep patients upright

Pain management - allowing patients to breathe deeply and recruit alveoli

Prompt mobilisation - allow patients to walk early

Puffing air - breathing exercises

Positive Pressure - CPAP

Purge - suctioning mucus