Name of the Procedure:

Spirometer, Non-Electronic (A9284)

Summary

A non-electronic spirometer is a simple medical device used to measure the volume of air a person can inhale and exhale. It is commonly used to assess lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions.

Purpose

The spirometer helps to diagnose and monitor diseases affecting lung function, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions that impair breathing. The goal is to evaluate the lung capacity and airflow to aid in proper diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• History of lung disease
• Monitoring of diagnosed respiratory conditions

Preparation

• No special preparation is generally required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any current medications.
• It's advisable to wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict breathing.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is asked to sit upright and relax.
2. The patient takes a deep breath and exhales forcefully into the spirometer's mouthpiece.
3. This process may be repeated several times to ensure accuracy.
4. The device includes all necessary accessories to measure the airflow.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in a doctor's office, outpatient clinic, or hospital's pulmonary function lab.

Personnel

• Primary care physician
• Pulmonologist
• Trained nurse or respiratory therapist

Risks and Complications

• There are minimal risks involved.
• Rarely, a patient may feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Proper technique should be ensured to avoid inaccurate results.

Benefits

• Provides valuable information about lung health.
• Non-invasive and painless.
• Immediate results help in quick diagnosis and treatment planning.

Recovery

• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the test.
• No recovery time or follow-up appointments are required specifically for the procedure, unless advised otherwise.

Alternatives

• Electronic Spirometer: More advanced and may provide detailed analysis.
• Peak Flow Meter: Simpler tool for monitoring lung function, particularly in asthma patients.
• Imaging studies (such as X-rays or CT scans): For more detailed anatomical information.

Patient Experience

• The test is generally painless.
• Some patients may feel a slight discomfort while exhaling forcefully.
• Proper instructions and reassurance from healthcare professionals help in ensuring patient comfort.