Basics of Pulmonary Function Testing Flashcards
What are the contraindications of pulmonary function testing?
Hemoptysis, pneumothorax, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, acute chest or abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, recent cataract removal surgery, and patients with dementia or confusion.
What are the indications of pulmonary function testing?
To identify and quantify changes in pulmonary function, To evaluate the need and quantify therapeutic effectiveness, To perform epidemiologic surveillance for pulmonary disease, To assess patient for risk of postoperative pulmonary complications, and To determine pulmonary disability.
What are the three components to pulmonary function testing?
- Performing spirometry to measure airway mechanics.
- Measuring lung volumes and capacities.
- Measuring diffusing capacity of the lung.
What are the two major categories of pulmonary disease?
obstructive pulmonary disease
restrictive pulmonary disease
What can disqualify forced vital capacity trial?
cough inspiration Valsalva maneuver Leak obstructed mouthpiece
What does a decrease in flow rate signify?
Increase in airways resistance and presence of an airway obstruction when patient effort creating the difference between mouth pressure and lung pressure is constant
What does an FEV1/FVC of less than 70% indicate?
An obstructive impairment
What is airway resistance (Raw)?
Difference in pressure between the ends of the airways divided by the flow rate of gas moving through the airway
What is the most commonly measured lung volume?
vital capacity
What is the primary problem in obstructive pulmonary disease?
increase in airway resistance
increase in total lung capacity
decrease in flow
increase in FRC
What is the primary problem restrictive lung disease?
reduced lung compliance, thoracic compliance or both
Why is vital capacity reduced in restrictive lung disease?
inhaled volume is reduced
What are some examples of combined obstructive/restrictive diseases?
sarcoidosis
pregnancy
asthma
