Management of Reduced Lung Volume

• Positioning Supine to Upright:

  • Increase in lung volumes (FRC & VT)
  • Increase in expiratory flow
  • Increase in diaphragmatic excursion
  • Optimises respiratory mechanics
  • Increase in mobilisation secretions
  • Decrease in work of breathing
  • Increase in lung compliance
  • Increase in alveolar ventilation
• However, early mobilisation is the most effective way to improve lung volumes and increase compliance