Which intervention is effective in clearing secretions associated with atelectasis?

• A. Chest physiotherapy
• B. Nebulized saline
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Bronchodilator therapy

Answer: (A)

Clearing secretions to improve ventilation and re-expand collapsed lung tissue is the goal. Chest physiotherapy uses percussion, vibration, and postural drainage to loosen mucus and move it from the smaller airways to the larger airways where it can be coughed up or suctioned. In atelectasis, mucus plugs contribute to airway obstruction and alveolar collapse; mobilizing secretions relieves that obstruction and improves gas exchange. Nebulized saline can thin secretions and help loosen mucus, but it doesn’t actively remove secretions on its own. Antibiotics treat infection and bronchodilator therapy opens airways but don’t directly clear mucus; therefore chest physiotherapy is the most effective intervention for clearing secretions in this situation.