For a 4-month-old with cystic fibrosis, when should chest physiotherapy be performed?

• A. Thirty minutes before feeding the child breakfast.
• B. After deep-suctioning the child each morning.
• C. Thirty minutes after feeding the child breakfast.
• D. Only when the child has congestion or coughing.

Answer: (A)

Chest physiotherapy is used to loosen and clear mucus in the airways, and timing matters to maximize safety and effectiveness in infants with CF. Doing it about 30 minutes before a feeding helps loosen secretions when the airway is ready to clear, and it reduces the risk of reflux or vomiting if secretions are mobilized during a meal. Performing CPT after feeding can increase the chance of regurgitation or aspiration during the session, and waiting until the child is congested misses the chance for routine airway clearance. Regular pre-meal chest physiotherapy provides consistent mucus clearance and supports feeding and breathing more smoothly.