What does the term "PEP Mask" refer to in respiratory therapy?

The term "PEP Mask" refers to a device used in respiratory therapy that enhances airway clearance. PEP stands for Positive Expiratory Pressure, and this mask is designed to create a pressure in the airways that helps keep them open during exhalation. This pressure encourages the clearance of mucus from the lungs, making it an effective tool for patients with respiratory conditions that lead to mucus accumulation, such as cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

When patients exhale against the resistance provided by the PEP Mask, it not only improves ventilation but also helps mobilize secretions, making it easier for patients to cough them up. By promoting better airway clearance, the PEP Mask can significantly improve overall respiratory function and reduce the risk of lung infections.

In contrast, the other options represent different aspects of respiratory therapy. For example, techniques to promote diaphragm use or forced expiration have their own methods and purposes, but they do not specifically involve the use of a PEP Mask. Additionally, while incentive spirometry aims to encourage deep breathing to prevent atelectasis, it does not directly promote airway clearance in the same manner as a PEP Mask.