Provide guidelines for performing spirometry testing.
The American Thoracic Society (ATS) suggests that individuals meeting any one of the following criteria should have at least one spirometry test performed annually or as indicated:
Job Pre-placement (Post Offer) examinations.
History of shortness of breath upon exertion or at rest.
History of chronic cough or sputum production.
History of wheezing or chest tightness.
History of frequent 'colds' or allergic rhinitis.
Early detection of congestive heart failure.
Occupational exposure to inhaled dust or chemicals.
Follow-up visits of all patients with asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.
Management of all patients on broncho-dilators.
Documentation of pulmonary disability.
Preoperative for all patients scheduled for thoracic and upper abdominal surgery.
To evaluate the effects of environmental air pollution.
Cigarette smokers over 40 years of age.
Note: Early recognition of lung disease including asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and black lung disease can only be accomplished by spirometry.
Reference: 'ATS Recommendations' NIOSH-approved spirometry training course#051 training manual 9.1.06, 2007 www.palmerassociates.com