Spirometer
Data Collection
4
®
Procedure Notes
Observing the following conditions will allow you to collect consistent and
accurate data.
•
You may need to run the test a few times in order to get satisfactory
data.
•
The subject should sit up or stand comfortably.
•
Talk the subject through each inspiration and expiration (this will
prevent the subject from being distracted by counting breathes or
remembering the sequence.)
•
Do not allow the test subject to see the data as it is collected.
•
Use a nose clip, or have the subject pinch his or her nose during the
test.
•
Place the mouthpiece and handle on a table before you start data
collection. Do not pick it up until the red WAIT indicator has stopped
blinking and the green READY indicator is illuminated. While the
WAIT indicator is blinking, the sensor is measuring the ambient
pressure in order to establish a baseline reading. It is important not to
expose the sensor to any pressure change or airflow during the wait
period.
•
The electronics enclosure contains a high-resolution differential
pressure sensing element that is sensitive to orientation. The orientation
with respect to vertical or horizontal is not important, but it must
remain constant during the wait period and data collecting.
•
Single-use mouthpieces are intended for a single test occasion, which
may include several tests with the same individual. However, with each
test, liquid and particles can accumulate on the screen of the
mouthpiece, which increase the resistance to air flow, leading to
unrealistically high readings of Flow Rate and Total Volume in
subsequent tests. Replace the mouthpiece if you observe evidence of
screen contamination. For the most accurate results, use a new
mouthpiece for every test.
