Performing Postural Drainage And Chest Percussion For Cystic Fibrosis

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Introduction

Cystic fibrosis causes mucus to become thick and sticky, which can clog the lungs and cause serious problems. You can help your child maintain lung function and avoid complications from mucus buildup and blockage by performing an airway clearance technique (ACT). Postural drainage and chest percussion (PD & P) is one of several airway clearance techniques that help clear mucus from your child's lungs.

Key points:

• To help keep the lungs clear, it is important to perform an airway clearance technique (such as postural drainage and chest percussion) every day. PD & P works well when used regularly.
• These techniques are one part of a larger treatment plan for cystic fibrosis.
• You may not notice an improvement in your child's lung function right away. But studies show that stopping these treatments will cause decreased lung function after 3 weeks in older children who have mild to moderate lung problems.¹

It is important for your child to visit his or her doctor regularly and make any necessary changes in treatment.

 What does excess mucus do to the lungs and health?

 Why should I do postural drainage?

 How do I do postural drainage?

 Where to go from here

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Last updated:	June 26, 2007
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman