The Capella Choice Blue Vibratory PEP Device is used for:

• Airway clearance in adults and children with chronic respiratory conditions, including bronchiectasis, COPD, and cystic fibrosis.

• Management of recurrent chest infections by preventing mucus buildup in the airways.

• Post-operative respiratory recovery to support lung expansion and secretion clearance.

• Adjunct therapy for individuals with neuromuscular conditions affecting the ability to cough effectively.

The Capella Choice Blue operates on the principle of oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP). When you exhale through the device, a stainless steel ball inside the chamber rises and falls rapidly, creating a series of gentle pressure fluctuations. These vibrations travel back through the airways, loosening mucus from the airway walls and breaking it into smaller, more manageable portions.

At the same time, the positive back pressure generated during exhalation helps keep the smaller airways open, reducing the risk of airway collapse. This dual-action vibration plus controlled pressure makes mucus easier to move toward the larger airways, where it can be cleared by coughing or huffing.

With regular use, the Capella Choice Blue supports improved airflow, reduces the frequency of chest infections, and enhances overall respiratory comfort.

The Capella Choice Blue is a mechanical device and does not chemically interact with medications. However, the following clinical considerations are important:

• Inhaled bronchodilators: Take your bronchodilator inhaler 15–20 minutes before using the Capella Choice Blue. This helps open the airways and makes PEP therapy more effective.

• Nebulised medications: If you use a nebuliser, complete your nebulisation session first, then use the PEP device to help mobilise any loosened secretions.

• Oxygen therapy: The Capella Choice Blue can generally be used alongside supplemental oxygen. Inform your treating team so they can integrate it properly into your care plan.

• Other airway clearance devices: Do not use multiple oscillating PEP devices simultaneously unless specifically advised by your physiotherapist, as this may cause unnecessary respiratory fatigue.

Always inform your physiotherapist or pulmonologist about all respiratory therapies and devices you are currently using.

• Store the device at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• After each use, disassemble and clean all parts as per the manufacturer's instructions. Allow them to air dry completely before reassembly.

• Do not submerge the device in boiling water unless it is rated for sterilisation; follow the cleaning method recommended in the package insert.

• Replace the device as advised by your healthcare provider, typically every 6–12 months or when visible wear occurs.

• Keep the device out of children's reach when not in supervised use.

• Do not share your device with others, as cross-contamination can spread respiratory infections.

The Capella Choice Blue is used for airway clearance therapy sessions, typically once or twice daily or as prescribed by your physiotherapist.

Basic technique:

1. Sit upright in a comfortable position with your elbows resting on a table.

2. Take a slightly deeper breath than normal (but do not fill your lungs completely).

3. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, seal your lips around it, and exhale slowly and steadily through the device.

4. You will feel a gentle vibrating resistance as you breathe out. Maintain a consistent, controlled exhalation.

5. Repeat this cycle 4–6 times per session, or as directed by your physiotherapist.

Your physiotherapist will tailor session length and frequency based on your condition and mucus burden. Do not change the resistance setting on your own without clinical guidance.

The Capella Choice Blue is a non-pharmacological device. Most people tolerate it well. However, some users may experience:

Common, temporary effects:

• Mild lightheadedness or dizziness during initial sessions.

• Temporary increase in coughing as mucus is mobilised.

• Slight chest tightness if used incorrectly or for too long.

When to stop and seek medical advice:

• Significant shortness of breath or worsening breathlessness during or after a session.

• Chest pain or palpitations.

• Coughing up blood.

• Marked increase in respiratory distress.

If you experience any of the above, discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider promptly.

• Start with shorter sessions: If you are new to PEP therapy, begin with fewer cycles per session and gradually build up as your technique and tolerance improve.

• Breathe at the right pace: Exhale slowly and steadily through the device. Exhaling too fast reduces the vibrating effect; exhaling too slowly may make the session less productive.

• Time it around your inhalers: Using the Capella Choice Blue after your bronchodilator helps maximise mucus clearance by ensuring your airways are as open as possible.

• Clean consistently: A dirty device can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of respiratory infections. Clean all parts after every session without exception.

• Track your progress: Note whether your mucus is easier to clear, your cough is more productive, or your breathlessness is reducing over the course of weeks of regular use. Share this information with your physiotherapist at follow-up appointments.