ATS Pulmonary Function Laboratory Manual

chapter  8

2.3. FRC He 1. Two-point (zero to full scale) calibration of the He analyzer should be performed at least once each day prior to testing patients. 2.4. Plethysmograph 1. Calibration of mouth pressure and box pressure transducers is performed at least once each day according to manufacturer’s instructions prior to testing patients.

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

The ID band is present but not attached to the patient Check for a complete physician’s order. Collect and record demographic information.

2. 3.

4. Explain and demonstrate test maneuver and have patient seated comfortably. Advise the patient they will have to remain seated throughout the test. Instruct the patient to keep a tight lip seal and to give maximum effort. A tight-fitting nose clip should be properly in place.

Test Procedure for FRC pleth

Step Action 1.

Set-up and test preparation: • Turn equipment on, allow adequate warm-up time, and calibrate as instructed by the manufacturer. • Adjust the equipment so that the patient can sit comfortably in the chamber and reach the mouthpiece without having to flex or extend the neck. • Seat the patient comfortably, dentures should not be removed. Explain the procedure including that the door will be closed and that the patient’s cheeks are supported by both hands, and place the nose clips on the patient’s nose. • Close the plethysmograph door and allow ample time (sometimes as much as a minute is needed) for thermal transients to stabilize and the patient to relax.

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