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Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) and Spirometry Test
What is a Pulmonary Function Test?
A pulmonary function test (PFT), also called a pulmonary function spirometry test, is a non-invasive exam. It measures how well your lungs are working.
Pulmonary Function Test Meaning
A PFT includes measuring how your lungs take in air, release it, and how well they move vital gases like oxygen into your bloodstream. These PFTs are essential tools in occupational health. They help ensure workers are fit for duty, especially in demanding jobs or areas with breathing hazards.
Is a Pulmonary Function Test and Spirometry the Same Thing?
People often use the terms in place of each other, but spirometry actually makes up just one part of a PFT. Spirometry testing measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how quickly you do it. So, when comparing spirometry vs pulmonary function test, spirometry is a key component of the broader PFT.
When is a Pulmonary Function Test Required?
A PFT is often required in the following cases:
- To monitor exposure to toxic substances such as isocyanides
- For ongoing exposure surveillance programs
- To evaluate fitness for physically demanding or safety-sensitive jobs
- To determine if an individual can safely wear self-contained breathing equipment (e.g., SCBA)
- Ensure compliance with federal, provincial, and industry standards (e.g., NFPA, CSA)
- As part of routine asthma tests or to diagnose other chronic lung conditions
How Long Does a Pulmonary Function Test Take?
On average, pulmonary function testing takes about 20 minutes. This depends on the complexity of the case and the number of measurements needed. But how long does a spirometry test take? The spirometry portion typically takes only about 10 minutes, though preparation and explanation may extend the total time.
What Not to Do Before a Pulmonary Function Test
To ensure accurate spirometry test results, avoid:
- Smoking for at least one hour before the test
- Performing vigorous exercise within 30 minutes of the test
- Wearing tight clothing that might restrict breathing
- Eating a heavy meal shortly before the test
CannAmm’s Comprehensive PFT Process
At CannAmm, our pulmonary function testing offers a thorough and professional experience. Our PFT includes:
- Measuring blood pressure
- Documenting a comprehensive substance exposure history
- Recording your detailed health history
- Identifying any recent symptoms or exposures that may affect lung performance
After this intake process, a trained technician performs the spirometry test to assess actual lung function. The equipment used during spirometry testing measures total lung capacity and expiration velocity. Expiration velocity measures how quickly you exhale air over time. This provides vital data about your lung-related health.
Who Should Get a Pulmonary Function Test?
Anyone exposed to airborne chemicals, dust, smoke, or other inhaled irritants at work may benefit from pulmonary function tests. Additionally, individuals with symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, or a chronic cough may need a spirometry test. This helps determine the presence of conditions such as asthma, COPD, or other lung diseases.
Workers in construction, manufacturing, mining, health care, education, public administration, and transportation face serious health risks from workplace exposures. These include silica, asbestos, coal, isocyanates, and surgical smoke in operating rooms.
Between 2012 and January 2016, the Workers’ Compensation Board of Alberta recorded 305 deaths from occupational disease. Lung injuries and diseases caused 84.9% of these deaths.
Most of these lung-related deaths were due to past asbestos exposure. Today, silica use is widespread in the oil and gas industry, and silica dust remains a major hazard in hard rock mining. We must learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating them.
Book Your Test Today
Still not sure what a pulmonary function test is? Trying to understand spirometry test results? CannAmm is here to help!
We also support those who need to complete a medical assessment for occupational health compliance. Contact CannAmm at 1-800-440-0023 to schedule your spirometry or pulmonary function test today.
