ATS Pulmonary Function Laboratory Manual

chapter  11

3. Postponement may be necessary if the patient has not complied with the preparation criteria. The ordering physician is to be contacted to determine if rescheduling is necessary. 3.1. In the event the ordering physician cannot be contacted, the laboratory medical director (or designee) should determine if testing should proceed. 4. In order to properly document and interpret the test results, relevant clinical information, including the clinical indication for ordering the test, must be provided in writing by the ordering physician.

Special Safety Precautions 1.

Indications for immediate termination of testing 1.1. Syncope 1.2. Angina 1.3. Lightheadedness not relieved by rest 1.4. Request from patient to terminate test

2. Abnormal responses that may require discontinuation of testing 2.1. Mental confusion or headache 2.2. Nausea or vomiting 2.3. Muscle cramping 3. Hazards associated with maximal respiratory force testing 3.1. Ruptured ear drum 3.2. Exacerbation of hemorrhoids 3.3. Syncope 3.4. Conjunctival hemorrhage

Equipment Preparation and Calibration Checks 1. Check the calibration of the measurement system according to manufacturer’s instructions each day of use. Ideally, the pressures can be verified using an oil or water manometer.

Procedure

Pre-Test Preparation

Step Action 1. Check patient identification. Ask the patient to state or spell his/her first and last names, and date of birth. Verify the spelling and date of birth against ID band, and/or requisition. IF THEN Patient unable to provide Information • Get information from family member or caregiver, if present. • Notify person in charge, if a family member or caregiver is not present to provide the information The identifiers do not match • Contact registration • Resolve discrepancies before proceeding

The ID band is present but not attached to the patient

• Do not proceed. • Notify patient’s nurse or registration desk

2.

Check for a complete physician’s order.

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