Which therapy helps mobilize secretions through percussion and vibration?

• A. Nebulized saline
• B. Chest physiotherapy
• C. Incentive spirometry
• D. Oxygen therapy

Answer: (B)

Mobilizing secretions in the airways is achieved with chest physiotherapy, which uses percussion and vibration to loosen mucus so it can be coughed up or suctioned. Percussion involves rhythmic clapping on the chest or back to jar loose thick secretions, while vibration provides a firm, gentle tremor during exhalation to help move mucus toward the larger airways. These techniques are often paired with drainage positions that guide secretions from the periphery toward the central airways for easier clearance.

Nebulized saline hydrates and may thin secretions but doesn’t mechanically mobilize them. Incentive spirometry aims to improve lung expansion and prevent atelectasis, not directly clear mucus. Oxygen therapy supplies adequate oxygenation rather than assisting with airway clearance.