Nursing Central: Pulmonary Function Studies

Pulmonary Function Studies

Indications

Detect chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and/or restrictive pulmonary diseases that affect the chest wall (e.g., neuromuscular disorders, kyphosis, scoliosis) and lungs, as evidenced by abnormal airflows and volumes
Determine airway response to inhalants in patients with an airway-reactive disorder
Determine the diffusing capacity of the lungs (DCOL)
Determine the effectiveness of therapy regimens, such as bronchodilators, for pulmonary disorders
Determine the presence of lung disease when other studies, such as x-rays, do not provide a definitive diagnosis, or determine the progression and severity of known COPD and restrictive pulmonary disease
Evaluate the cause of dyspnea occurring with or without exercise
Evaluate lung compliance to determine changes in elasticity, as evidenced by changes in lung volumes (decreased in restrictive pulmonary disease, increased in COPD and in elderly patients)
Evaluate pulmonary disability for legal or insurance claims
Evaluate pulmonary function after surgical pneumonectomy, lobectomy, or segmental lobectomy
Evaluate the respiratory system to determine the patient’s ability to tolerate procedures such as surgery or diagnostic studies
Screen high-risk populations for early detection of pulmonary conditions (e.g., patients with exposure to occupational or environmental hazards, smokers, patients with a hereditary predisposition)

Pulmonary Function Studies has been found in Davis's Lab & Diagnostic Tests

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