Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary function tests (PFT) or Spirometry measures lung function. Specifically, the test measures the amount and speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. Tomo currently offers pulmonary function testing at our Tulsa, Oklahoma location.
What do I need to know about the Pulmonary Function Tests offered by Tomo?
PFT’s are helpful in assisting breathing patterns that identify conditions such as asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and COPD. The purpose, procedure, discomfort, and risks of the test will vary.
Spirometry measures the rate of air flow and estimates lung size.
For this test, you will breathe multiple times, with regular and maximal effort, through a tube connected to a computer. Some people feel lightheaded or tired from the required breathing effort.
Pulse oximetry estimates the current oxygen levels in your blood.
For this test, a probe will be placed on your finger or another skin surface such as your ear. It causes no pain and has few or no risks.
In some cases, a pulmonary function test is done along with a respirator fit test. The respirator fit testing ensures the right mask fit and model for the employee. The pulmonary function test is used in conjunction to gauge the employee’s lung health.
Employers use the tests to develop a baseline they can compare against future tests to identify possible lung issues before clinically evident and ensure employees have the adequate protection necessary to perform their job.
Furthermore, having an established baseline provides good protection when evaluating the cause of worker’s compensation claims.
Commonly asked questions and how to prepare for a Respirator Fit Test can be found on our blog.