Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the recommended non-pharmacological treatment for bronchiectasis?

1. Muscle training and postural drainage

2. Antibiotic therapy

3. Pulmonary rehabilitation

4. Immunization

The correct answer is: Muscle training and postural drainage

In managing bronchiectasis, non-pharmacological treatments play a crucial role in improving respiratory function and overall quality of life. Muscle training and postural drainage are essential components. Muscle training helps improve the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles, facilitating better lung function and supporting activities of daily living. By enhancing muscle function, patients may find it easier to perform physical tasks and maintain mobility, contributing positively to their health. Postural drainage involves using specific body positions to help clear mucus from the lungs. This technique increases mucus clearance, which is vital for patients with bronchiectasis, as trapped mucus can lead to infectious complications and further lung damage. By employing gravity and body positioning, postural drainage can assist in loosening and expelling secretions from the airways. While other options like antibiotic therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and immunization are important in the broader management of bronchiectasis, they do not strictly fall under the category of non-pharmacological treatments. Antibiotic therapy is pharmacological and primarily targets infections. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that may include various non-pharmacological approaches but is more encompassing than just muscle training and postural drainage. Immunization is preventive and unrelated to the direct management of existing bronchiectasis.