Health Gate
Vol 4, No 3 (2026): July

Active Cycle Breathing Technique for Ineffective Airway Clearance in a COPD Patient:ACase Study

Erik Kusuma (Universitas Jember)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory disease that commonly causes ineffective airway clearance due to excessive mucus production and sputum retention. Active Cycle Breathing Technique (ACBT) is a breathing exercise used to facilitate secretion mobilization and improve airway clearance. Objective: This study aimed to describe the implementation of ACBT in a patient with ineffective airway clearance associated with COPD. Methods: A descriptive case study design was used involving one COPD patient hospitalized in Melati Ward, Bangil Regional Hospital. The intervention consisted of breathing control, thoracic expansion exercises, and forced expiration techniques administered once daily for three consecutive days. Clinical indicators observed included respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, cough effectiveness, dyspnea, breath sounds, and sputum characteristics. Results: The results showed progressive improvement during the intervention period. Respiratory rate decreased from 25 to 20 breaths/minute, oxygen saturation increased from 98% to 99%, dyspnea resolved, cough effectiveness improved, and sputum became thinner and easier to expectorate. Conclusion: These findings indicate that Active Cycle Breathing Technique contributed to improved airway clearance and respiratory status. ACBT can be recommended as a complementary nursing intervention for patients with ineffective airway clearance due to COPD.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

hg

Publisher

Subject

Dentistry Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Nursing Public Health

Description

"Health Gate" is a media for the publication of articles on research, case report, literature review, book review, perspective, scientific news and letter to editor in the areas of health science and practice such as nursing, midwifery, public health, medicine, dentistry, pharmaceutical, ...