A medical assistant is preparing a patient for a spirometry test. Which of the following instructions should the MA provide to the patient?
- AAvoid eating for 8 hours prior to the test.
- BRefrain from taking any prescribed bronchodilators for 24 hours before the test.
- CPerform the test in a supine position.
- DTake a deep breath in and blow out as hard and fast as possible.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Take a deep breath in and blow out as hard and fast as possible.
Spirometry measures lung function by assessing how much and how quickly air can be moved in and out of the lungs. The key instruction is to inhale fully and then exhale forcefully and completely. Options A, B, and D are incorrect; fasting is not typically required, the test is usually done seated or standing, and patients are often instructed to hold bronchodilators for a specific period, but not necessarily 24 hours, and this instruction comes from the provider, not a general MA instruction for all patients.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Fasting is generally not required for spirometry.
- B. While bronchodilator use may need to be held, the specific timeframe (e.g., 4-12 hours) is determined by the provider and medication, and it's not a universal instruction for all patients or tests.
- C. Spirometry is typically performed in a seated or standing position, not supine, to allow for optimal lung expansion.
Spirometry Patient Instructions
Guidance given to patients to ensure accurate results during a spirometry test, which measures lung function.
- No smoking for 1 hour prior.
- Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, vigorous exercise prior.
- Wear loose clothing.
- May need to hold bronchodilators (per provider order).
- Key maneuver: deep breath in, then blow out hard and fast, completely.
Memory trick: Breathe Big, Blow Boldly, Be Still