Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(^136) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified

Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

WHY IS IT DONE?

This test assesses the lungs’ ability to move air. Monitor change from normal func-

tion; differentiate obstructive from restrictive disease.

HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?

The patient takes a deep breath. The spirometer is inserted into the patient’s mouth

and the patient breathes outward quickly at full force until all air is expelled. A

deep breath is then taken in through the mouthpiece and this process is repeated

three times. A computer then calculates the lungs’ volume and vital capacity by

measuring the amount of air moving in and out. The force of the air flow is meas-

ured. The duration of time of exhalation is measured.

WHAT TO DO?

• Before the test:
  
  
  • The patient should not smoke prior to the test. Smoking may have an
    effect on the outcome of the test.
  
  
  
  


• During the test:
  
  
  • Instruct the patient to take a deep breath and then exhale completely into
    the spirometer, followed by deep inhalation.
  
  
  
  


• After the test:
  
  
  • Administer bronchodilators after the initial testing is done and repeat the
    test if indicated. This will show the effect of bronchodilators on pulmo-
    nary function. Albuterol or levalbuterol are typically used.
  
  
  
  

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)

WHY IS IT DONE?

This determines the patient’s ventilation, tissue oxygenation, and acid-base status.