Question

a. What is pulmonary function test (pft)?

b. describe at least three assessment of the patient performed by the pft technician. Identify priorities and state the rationale for each.

c. describe methods of communication utilized in each situation of the pft test and state how each contributed to patient safety during the procedure.

d. describe systems that are in place to promote patient safety as well as potential challenges within these existing systems during pft.

Answer 1

Answer: Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of tests that measure working of lungs. This also includes how well the person is able to breathe and how effective lungs are able to bring oxygen to the rest of body. These tests are mainly done for the patient suffering from COPD, asthma, lungs diseases etc.

If a patient is on medications that open airways, such as those used for asthma or chronic bronchitis, then it should be stopped taking them before the test because these medicines may affect the result. If patient is a smoker, he should not smoke on the test day.