Percussion

Percussion can be performed to help break up thick fluids in you lungs:

Form a cup shape with your hand and wrist.
Clap your hand and wrist against your chest (or have someone clap your back, if your doctor tells you to).
You should hear a hollow or popping sound, NOT a slapping sound.
Do not clap so hard that it hurts.

Do percussion for 5 to 7 minutes in each area of the chest. Do this on all of the areas of your chest or back that your doctor tells you to. When you finish, take a deep breath and cough.

Reviewed last on: 2/11/2009
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine.

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