2. Uses Of Spirometry

Question 1

What are four uses for spirometry from a medical–surgical point of view?

Answer 1

In medicine and surgery, spirometry is used to diagnose disease, to develop and
evaluate therapy, and to evaluate patients pre- and post-operatively.

Question 2

How is spirometry used in the occupational health setting?

Answer 2

In occupational health, spirometry is a screening tool used to assess pulmonary status. It can be used on pre-placement, with medical surveillance of workers at risk, as part of disability assessment, and in data collection for research.
The most significant use of spirometry in the occupational health setting is its use to establish a baseline so that comparisons can be made throughout a worker’s employment to detect any possible changes in lung function that are the result of workplace exposure.