QualiBreath 101 - How to measure and choose the correct size

This is the third part of a series of Blog posts talking in depth about QualiBreath sternum and thorax support.
In here we are going to go through all the FAQ's one category at a time and we want to give you an easy and simple overview of what this special postoperative product is, what it can do and how you can benefit from it if you have had an open heart surgery or other surgeries in the chest and sternum area.

How to measure and choose the correct size:

1. How many sizes are available of QualiBreath?
   Seven adult sizes: XS (Extra Small), S (Small), M (Medium), L (Large), XL (Extra Large), XXL and XXXL.
 Three pediatric sizes: 4-6 years, 6-8 years, 8-10 years. The Extra Small adult size will fit 10-12 years children.
   Two infant sizes: Circumference of 27-32 cm and 32-38 cm.
   
   
   
   
2. Why is QualiBreath available in so many sizes?
   This is to ensure the best possible fit to the patient’s thorax for an optimal, constant breathing support. Each size, when correctly chosen, ensures that the shoulder straps and the bar handles are positioned centrally for ultimate comfort. This is not possible with a “one-size-fits-all” elastic adjustable band.
   
   
3. Is the height of QualiBreath the same for all sizes?
   All adult sizes have a material width of 16 cm, the pediatric sizes 10 cm, and the Infant of just 3 cm.
   
   
4. How is it possible to know which QualiBreath size to choose?
   The patient’s chest must be measured and the corresponding QualiBreath size located on the sizing guide included on all brochures, posters and here.
   
   
5. Where should the patient's chest be measured?
   Place the measure tape directly under the armpits and above the breasts - both on men, women and children to get the correct measurement.
   
   
   
   
6. Is there a way to choose the correct size if there is no measure tape at hand?
   Yes, a rough way is to use one’s hands to measure the patient’s thorax from one armpit to the other above the breasts. An outspread hand-width from thumb to little-finger is roughly 20 cm or 8 inches e.g. if the measure is found to be 2.5 hand-widths, the circumference would be 5 hand- widths, or 100 cm (40 inches). The correct QualiBreath size can then be identified on the sizing chart. Another rough method is to use the patient’s normal clothing size as a guide, e.g. Small, Medium etc. In this case choose a QualiBreath one size smaller, e.g. if clothing size is Large - choose a Medium sized QualiBreath.
   
   
7. How much should QualiBreath be tightened?
   Since QualiBreath is ideally placed on the patient immediately after surgery, often before he/she is fully awake after the anaesthesia, we recommend to start with a lighter closure at the first Velcro attachment. When the patient is awake and cooperative, tighten the QualiBreath more towards the most inner Velcro position to achieve a tight support.

Have a look at the instructional video below:

In the next blog post we will be discussing how to use QualiBreath so be sure to check back or sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date.

Do you have any questions about QualiBreath you would like us to answer ?
Have you used QualiBreath or other chest supports? Tell your story in a comment below.

<<Go to previous blog post                                                                        Go to next blog post >>