Pulmonary Function Tests Overview

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Questions and Answers

What pH level indicates acidosis?

Between 7.35 and 7.45

Exactly 7.40

Less than 7.35 (correct)

Greater than 7.45

Which partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) indicates alkalosis?

Below 35 mmHg (correct)

Between 35-45 mmHg

Above 45 mmHg

Exactly 40 mmHg

What is the normal range for bicarbonate (HCO3) levels?

27-32 mEq/L

21-26 mEq/L (correct)

30-35 mEq/L

15-20 mEq/L

What is the primary function of a pulse oximeter?

To continuously measure oxygen saturation of hemoglobin Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about a chest MRI is true?

It uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency instead of radiation. Signup and view all the answers

How long must a patient remain NPO before a procedure requiring contrast medium?

4 hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential consequence of a PaO2 level below 80 mmHg?

Hypoxemia Signup and view all the answers

If a contrast medium is to be used during a procedure, what should be assessed?

Allergy to iodine Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary use of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)?

To assess respiratory function Signup and view all the answers

Which condition does NOT affect pulse oximetry readings?

Obesity Signup and view all the answers

What specimen is typically collected for Culture and Sensitivity tests?

Throat swab Signup and view all the answers

For sputum collection, when should the specimen be obtained?

Before eating or drinking in the morning Signup and view all the answers

Which test assesses oxygenation and acid-base balance?

Arterial blood gas study Signup and view all the answers

What type of specimen is obtained for blood gas analysis?

Arterial blood Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided prior to a pulmonary function test?

Smoking for 24 hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the preliminary result time frame for Culture and Sensitivity tests?

24 hours Signup and view all the answers

Which imaging method uses narrow-beam x-rays for lung scanning?

Computed Tomography (CT) scan Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary preparation required for Arterial Blood Gas studies?

No special preparation needed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Allen's Test?

To check for blood sufficiency Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a contraindication for a chest X-ray?

Pregnancy Signup and view all the answers

Why should a patient rinse their mouth with water before sputum collection?

To prevent contamination Signup and view all the answers

What category do microorganisms fall into regarding their reaction to antibiotic treatment?

Sensitive Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)

Assess respiratory function
Determine extent of dysfunction
Monitor response to therapy
Used for screening in hazardous industries
Uses a spirometer
Indications:
- Chronic respiratory disorders
- Patients undergoing thoracic and upper abdominal surgery
- Obesity
- Symptomatic patients with a history suggesting high risk

Percentage Predicted Value

Compares patient performance with an average based on age, gender, race, and height.

Patient Preparation for PFT

Instruct patient to avoid:
- Smoking for 24 hours
- Drinking alcohol for at least 4 hours
- Vigorous exercise for at least 30 minutes
- Wearing any tight clothing
- Eating a large meal for at least 2 hours
- Taking short-acting bronchodilators for four hours
- Taking long-acting beta-2-agonist inhalers for 12 hours
- Taking slow-release medicines that affect respiratory function, and theophylline-based drugs for 24 hours

Arterial Blood Gas Studies (ABG)

Assess oxygenation and acid-base balance
No special preparation needed
Draw arterial blood, which is bright red in color
Radial artery most common site for blood withdrawal
Perform Allen's test prior to blood draw to check ulnar-radial blood sufficiency
Use heparinized syringe to prevent clotting
Keep collected specimen on ice to prevent hemolysis

Normal Arterial Blood Gas Values

pH: 7.35 to 7.45
PaCO2: 35-45 mmHg
HCO3: 21-26 mEq/L
PaO2: 80-100 mmHg

Abnormal Arterial Blood Gas Values

Acidosis: pH less than 7.35
Alkalosis: pH greater than 7.45
Hypoxia: PaO2 less than 80 mmHg

Factors Affecting Pulse Oximetry Readings

Anemia
Abnormal hemoglobin
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Patient movement (shivering)

Culture and Sensitivity (C&S)

Identifies the presence of pathogens in a sample and determines which drug/s are most effective against it.
Results:
- Sensitive: The drug is highly effective against the identified pathogen.
- Intermediate: The drug may be effective at a higher dosage.
- Resistant: The drug is ineffective against the identified pathogen.
Cultures should be obtained prior to antibiotic therapy initiation.
Preliminary results: usually available within 24 hours.
Final results: available after 48 to 72 hours.
Collection sites:
- Throat swab: Useful in detecting streptococcal infections.
- Nasal/Nasopharyngeal swab: Detects Staphylococcus aureus and Influenza.
- Sputum: For identifying a variety of pathogens

Sputum Studies

Sputum is the thick mucus produced in the lungs.
Gram staining: determines if the bacteria is gram-positive or gram-negative.
Culture and Sensitivity: Determines the presence of bacterial infection and which antibiotics are effective.
Acid-fast bacilli: Tests for tuberculosis.

Sputum Collection

Obtain sputum early in the morning before food or fluid intake.
Rinse mouth with water prior to collection.
Instruct patient to take a few deep breaths and then cough deeply.
Expectorate sputum into a sterile container.
Offer oral care.

Chest X-ray

Detects densities caused by fluid, tumors, foreign bodies, and other pathologic conditions.
Pregnancy is a contraindication.
No fasting or special preparation needed for the procedure.

Chest CT-Scan

Produces cross-sectional images of the chest.
Remain in supine position for about 30 minutes during the procedure.
If contrast medium is used:
- Assess for allergies to iodine.
- Monitor kidney function.
- Patient needs to be NPO for 4 hours prior to the procedure, or as ordered.

Chest MRI

Produces more detailed diagnostic images than x-rays and CT scans.
Utilizes magnetic fields and radiofrequency instead of radiation.

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Description

This quiz covers essential aspects of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT), including their purposes, indications, and preparation requirements for patients. It also discusses the significance of the percentage predicted value in assessing respiratory function. Perfect for healthcare professionals and students in respiratory therapy.