LUNG FUNCTION PRACTICAL: THE SPIROMETRY REPORT

THE SPIROMETRY REPORT:

A typical spirometry report is a document which sets out, in a standard format, information gathered about a patient whose lung function has been investigated. It consists of an identifier showing the institution which performed the test, patient information, the "loop" (flow-volume curves), and a table showing the various flow-volume rates.

The Identifier:

The Loop:

Performing the test: At least 3 but no more than 8 attempts. Acceptability: Crisp start. Early peak. Smooth downslope. Trace ends almost horizontal. Reproducibility: At least 3 acceptable traces with 2 reproducible efforts.

The Data:

The Tabulated Report:

Relevant information are tabulated as follows:

(NOTE: B.D. stands for bronchodilator, which is only used if airways obstruction is suspected.)

Here is a useful example of report form for recording information from the spirogram for clinical or research purposes.