Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

The way the procedure is done may vary. It depends on your condition and your healthcare provider’s methods. In most cases, the procedure will follow this process:

• You’ll be asked to loosen tight clothing, jewelry, or other things that may cause a problem with the procedure.
• If you wear dentures, you will need to wear them during the procedure.
• You’ll need to empty your bladder before the procedure.
• You’ll sit in a chair. A soft clip will be put on your nose. This is so all your breathing is done through your mouth, not your nose.
• You’ll be given a sterile mouthpiece that is attached to a spirometer.
• You’ll form a tight seal over the mouthpiece with your mouth. You’ll be instructed to inhale and exhale in different ways.
• You will be watched carefully during the procedure for dizziness, trouble breathing, or other problems.
• You may be given a bronchodilator after certain tests. The tests will then be repeated several minutes later, after the bronchodilator has taken effect.

If you have a history of lung or breathing problems, you may be tired after the tests. You will be given a chance to rest afterwards.

No special preparation required for this exam. For your comfort, avoid heavy meals before the test.

• Spirometry