Vibration is an airway clearance technique that, coupled with chest percussion, is applied during postural drainage to help COPD patients clear mucus from the airways. Vibration helps to gently shake mucus and secretions into the large airways, making them easier to cough up.
During vibration, place your flat hand firmly against the chest wall, atop the appropriate lung segment to be drained. Stiffen your arm and shoulder, apply light pressure and create a shaking movement, similar to that of a vibrator.
Tell your loved one to breathe in deeply during vibration therapy, and exhale slowly and completely. Taking a deep breath and then exhaling slowly and forcefully without straining will hopefully stimulate a productive cough.
