From the Guidelines
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are typically completed by respiratory therapists, pulmonary function technologists, or other specially trained healthcare professionals. These professionals work under the supervision of pulmonologists or other physicians who interpret the results 1. The testing process requires specific training to ensure accurate administration of the various breathing maneuvers and proper operation of the testing equipment.
Key Points
- Patients simply need to follow instructions and perform breathing exercises as directed during the test; no special preparation or skills are required from them beyond the ability to follow directions.
- The healthcare professional administering the test will guide patients through specific breathing patterns, such as forceful exhalation or inhalation, while specialized equipment measures various aspects of lung function.
- This specialized training is necessary because proper technique is essential for obtaining reliable results that physicians can use to diagnose respiratory conditions, assess disease severity, or monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Recent studies have highlighted the importance of using PFTs in clinical practice, particularly in the diagnosis and monitoring of asthma 1.
- The use of PFTs can help improve asthma management and reduce the risk of overdiagnosis or misdiagnosis 1.
- In terms of personnel qualifications, the American Thoracic Society (ATS) recommends that medical directors should have appropriate training and be responsible for all pulmonary function testing 1.
- The current guidelines suggest that completion of secondary education and at least 2 years of college education would be required to understand and fulfill the complete range of tasks undertaken by a pulmonary function technician 1.
From the Research
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) Overview
- PFTs are an essential tool in the diagnosis and management of respiratory conditions, providing quantitative information about lung function 2, 3.
- These tests are used to assess the severity and course of disease, evaluate patients for lung transplantation, and monitor response to treatment 2, 3, 4.
Who Completes PFTs
- PFTs are typically ordered by primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other healthcare professionals to aid in the diagnosis and management of respiratory diseases 5, 6.
- The tests are usually performed by trained technicians or healthcare professionals in a pulmonary function laboratory or hospital setting 2, 5.
Clinical Use of PFTs
- PFTs are used to investigate specific symptoms, diagnose lung diseases, and monitor disease progression or response to treatment 2, 3, 4.
- The results of PFTs are interpreted in conjunction with clinical information, medical history, and other diagnostic tests, such as chest imaging 3, 6.
- PFTs can help identify patterns of lung disease, such as obstructive, restrictive, or mixed patterns, and guide further diagnostic evaluation or treatment decisions 3, 4.