PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST INSTRUCTIONS

Please plan to arrive at the front desk 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment to register and sign papers at the front desk. If you have your orders, please bring them with you. Your will be sent to the 3rd floor to check in at Special Services. The Respiratory Therapist who will be working with you on this test will come and get you.

ON THE DAY OF YOUR TEST:

  • You may eat a light breakfast or light lunch but not a heavy or full meal
  • No smoking for 4 hours before the test
  • No caffeine (coffee, pop, chocolate, tea) for 4 hours before the test
  • Wear loose fitting clothing
  • Do not wear lipstick.

    • IF YOU ARE ON ANY INHALERS, PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW:

  • If you are on SPIRIVA, please do not take your normal dose for 24 hours before your test.
  • If you are on SEREVENT or ADVAIR, please do not take your normal dose for 12 hours before your test.
  • If you are on ATROVENT or COMBIVENT, please do not take your normal dose for 6 hours before your test.
  • If you are on ANY OTHER inhaler, please do not take your normal dose for 4 hours before your test.

    • A complete pulmonary function test includes the use of bronchodilators similar to the above medications, so it is important that you not take your own medication before the test.

    If an ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) is ordered on room air and you are already on oxygen, please leave your oxygen off for at least 30 minutes before the test.