PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS=====

Diagnostic value—To evaluatefor the presence or severity of lung disease and to measurethe extent of pulmonary impairment so that the effectivenessof therapy can be monitored.

Procedure====All pfts involve a spirometer,and measurements are recorded on a spirogram.The tests may be performed at bedside,orin alaboratory.After a noseclip is applied to stop air movementthrough the nose,the subject breathes into a mouthpiece that is connected to the testing apparatus.The more frequently ordered tests are

1—Forced vital capacity(FVC)

4

2---Forced expiratory volume in onesecond(FEV1)

3---Maximum Mid expiratory flow (MMEF)

4----Maximum voluntary ventilation(MVV)