Welch Allyn SpiroPerfect Spirometry Quick Start User Manual

SPIROPERFECT

SPIROMETRY

QUICK START GUIDE

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What is spirometry?

Spirometry is the most basic and frequently performed test of
pulmonary (lung) function. A device called a spirometer is used to
measure how much air the lungs can hold and how well the
respiratory system is able to move air into and out of the lungs.
Because spirometry is based on a maximal forced exhalation, the
accuracy of its results are highly dependent on your understanding,
cooperation, and best efforts; therefore good coaching is essential.

Spirometry differs from peak flow readings in that spirometry
records the entire forced breathing capacity against time, and peak
flow records the largest breathing flow that can be sustained for
10 milliseconds. Both are often used in asthma care.

Why would I need a spir

This test is used to deter

ule out any kind of obstr

r
restrictive disease that limits the expansion and capacity of the
lungs. Spirometry is most often used to diagnose and monitor lung
problems, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, pulmonary

osis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or asthma.

fibr

Spirometry is also used to monitor how well medications for
respiratory problems are working and to evaluate breathing
capability prior to surgery.

How is spirometry performed?

A spirometry test is done with a spirometer, which consists of a
mouthpiece and disposable tubing connected to a machine that
records the results and displays them on a graph. To perform
spirometry, you must breathe through a flow transducer while
performing certain breathing maneuvers like deep inhalation or
forceful exhalation. Some of the test measurements are obtained

SPIROPERFECT

PATIENT INFORMATION

y test?

ometr

mine the cause of shor
uctive disease that blocks breathing, or

tness of breath, to

by normal breathing, and other tests require rapid and forceful
inhalation and/or exhalation. The volume of air inhaled or
exhaled, and the length of time each breath takes are recorded
and analyzed.

Nose clips are usually used to make sure air is only coming out
of the mouth. Sometimes a test will be repeated to get the best
and maximum effort. Often, the tests are repeated after a person
takes a medication that opens the airways of the lungs (a bron­chodilator). A spirometry test can take anywhere from 5 minutes
to a half an hour, depending on the different types of breathing
tests being performed.

Are there risks associated with spirometry?

The risks are minimal for most people. Because the test
involves forced and rapid breathing, some people may experience
temporary shortness of breath. Spirometry should not be done if a
person suffers from chest pains, has had a recent heart attack, or
has serious heart disease. There is a small risk of a collapsed lung
in people with a certain type of lung disease.

How should I pr

Do not eat a heavy meal before spirometry testing. Refrain from
smoking for 4 to 6 hours before the test. Empty your bladder right
before testing.

Specific instr

onchodilators or inhalers need to be withheld befor

br
Sometimes, medication may be inhaled prior to the test, to test
how well an individual responds to medication.

epare for spirometry?

uctions will be given if medications such as

e the test.