What is a Spirometry Pulmonary Function Test?
Spirometry is a test that measures how much and how fast air flows into and out of the lungs.
Description of the Test
Your child will sit or stand in an upright position for this breathing test. Spirometry is measured by having your child place padded nose clips on their nose and place their mouth tightly around a clean, filtered mouthpiece. After breathing normally, the therapist will ask your child to breathe in deeply and then blast out the air, as hard and fast and long as possible. The therapist will have your child repeat the test until there are at least three consistent tests. Depending on the results, your child may repeat the test 10 minutes after an inhaled medication is administered.
Length of Test
The actual test only takes a few minutes. However, with explanation and practice, testing may take up to 40 minutes.
Preparing Your Child for the Test
Please contact your healthcare provider to see if your child needs to temporarily stop taking any medications before the test.
