Skip to main content

Basics About Different Kinds Of Spirometers

By Tracie Knight


Spirometry is a clinical process through which lung functions are measured, specifically speed and volume of air inhaled and exhaled. It is among pulmonary function tests done on patients with lung problems and it also goes by the phrase measuring of breath. The pieces of equipment used to do the process are called spirometers. Buyers have a wide range of devices to choose from because there are many models in the market today.

The function of this apparatus is determining abnormalities in ventilation patterns and air movements out and into the lungs. The devices detect two forms of abnormalities in ventilation pattern. The two abnormalities in ventilation pattern are restrictive and obstructive. Various models employ different measurement techniques to accomplish their task. Some of those methods are, use of water gauges, pressure or ultrasonic transducers.

These gadgets continue getting better as technology improves. At the present time several makes are in utilization in different around the globe. Among the key models are windmill-type, incentive, whole body plethymograph, pneumotachometer, peak flow type, fully electronic, and tilt compensated model. Of all the models body plethymograph has the highest accuracy with high precision in values taken. The great precision is partially because patients get enclosed in small spaces during the process.

The pneumotachometer gauges the flow rate of air by employing a fine mesh. The pressure of inhaled or exhaled gases is detected as they flow over the fine mesh, allowing measurement of their rate of flow. Patients are allowed to breathe in fresh air as the process continues. That is an advantage that lacks in most other models.

Fully electronic model is a complete improvement of other models because it does not have fine meshes or moving components. Rate of air flow is measured using methods such as pressure difference and ultrasonic transudcers. Lack of moving components improves the accuracy of these models because there is no friction or resistance. The hygiene is also improved since air flow channels used are disposable after use.

Incentive models are the most commonly used models in most settings. They are meant to improve the breathing of a patient over a long time of usage. They are normally placed on a bench or a table next to a bed. The patient should inhale and exhale through the mouthpiece for a given number of times every hour as per the instructions of the doctor. The calibrations on the device indicate any improvements the patient is making over time.

Windmill-type model can measure forced vital capacity without use of water. In comparison to the water-tank type, it is more portable and lighter. Measurements recorded are broad and range from 1000ml to 7000ml. When taking measurements, the apparatus must be maintained in horizontal position because it contains rotating discs. Tilt-compensated model contains 3D sensing mechanics, which allow backward or forward positions when in use.

The testing process is highly dependent on the cooperation of the patient. The values from one recording cannot be used because they may contain errors. That is the reason why the procedure is normally repeated at least three times. That is also the reason it cannot be used on small children who cannot follow instructions.




About the Author:



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How Chiropractic Helps Relieve Pinched Nerves In Lancaster

By Christian Bordner A pinched nerve often develops in the back with the result that large amounts of pressure is placed on the soft tissues and severe pain is experienced. This type of injury commonly occurs in the adult population, but may result from severe spinal damage including force and poor training methods. Chiropractors in Lancaster offer the necessary education for patients and safe intervention to restore regular mobility. Pinched nerves will restrict the ability to move the spine with the result that bending, twisting, and even regular walking become difficult. The obstruction of the nerves occur when the vertebrae of the spinal column are moved out of its original position. The misalignment can lead to a subluxation where the vertebral joints are displaced. Completing a physical assessment can aid in identifying the symptoms that are affecting normal operation. Compressed nervous tissue can occur from the improper alignment of the bones. The poor nerve health ca

A Patient Advocate Makes Medical Processes Easier

By Sally Delacruz Patient advocacy has been described as one of the fastest emerging careers most notably by the Entrepreneur magazine and US News. It is a field that has attracted entrepreneurs, social workers and medical professionals. These are examples of the people who have the interest, skill and qualifications to a patient advocate . This is primarily because patient advocacy has many aspects that require diverse expertise ranging from matters of insurance, health and law. Different countries in the world have their fair share of challenges in the health care system making it tremendously tenuous for patient to comfortably access health care services. This may be due to challenges with health care insurance companies or hospital bureaucracies. Doctors and nurses are no longer enough in helping deal with these challenges. Therefore an intermediary between the sick and the health care provider is of great valuable in navigating the challenges in the system. Advocates may

The Benefits Of Physical Therapist Fort Lauderdale

By Karina Frost When a person is not able to move effectively, the solution is looking for an expert who will restore this ability. This has become a prayer for many people, and now the answers are available. This involves hiring a physiotherapist who is highly skilled. The dedication of the specialists has also been commended. In this case when looking for the finest physical therapist Fort Lauderdale residents are assured of quality treatment. The experts have been able to handle a number of cases. This makes it possible for people to take their friends and siblings to a center that is reliable. This also involves being able to handle a number of cases. In this case all the patients are assured of the finest quality of service. Therefore, problems of mobility and pain become a long gone story. Giving birth to a child with disorders like disabilities is often so embarrassing to parents. It is the most traumatizing thing, and it even leads to divorces in the family. This is