Conducted as a randomized clinical trial, this study will include 40 pediatric participants aged 5-16, recruited from Gulab Devi Chest Hospital and Children's Hospital, Lahore. Participants will be randomly divided into two groups: one receiving Bubble PEP with Segmental Breathing and the other using Incentive Spirometry, both combined with conventional chest physiotherapy and mobility. Outcome measures, including lung expansion (via X-ray), dyspnea (assessed using the Pediatric Dyspnea Scale), chest expansion (measured with a measuring tape), oxygen saturation (SpO₂), and respiratory rate, will be recorded pre- and post-intervention. The study hypothesises that the Bubble PEP and Segmental Breathing approach may offer a cost-effective and efficient alternative to Incentive Spirometry, particularly for patients who cannot afford mechanical devices. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS version 2023 to determine the intervention's effects.
Age 5 to 16.
Suffering from Pleural effusion or hydrothorax.
Thoracic drainage system in situ for 24 hours.
Either gender will be included.
Any other pulmonary pathology that does not fit the diagnostic criteria of Pleural Effusion.
Participants with unbearable chest pain, chylothorax, hemothorax, pneumothorax, chest trauma or rib fracture.
Participants with other comorbidities leading to pleural effusion.
Patients who have chest musculoskeletal deformities.