A lung lab technician works with people with lung problems.
A pulmonary laboratory technician is primarily responsible for educating patients on specific breathing methods and performing pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to verify the level at which a patient’s respiratory processes are functioning. Doctors use this data to diagnose and treat lung disorders. Types of PFTs performed may include spirometry, helium dilution lung volumes, nitrogen scavenging, or plethysmography.
A pulmonary laboratory technician may be responsible for measuring the rate of airflow in a patient’s lungs through the use of a spirometer.
Using the spirometer, the lab technician measures the rate of airflow in a patient’s lungs and performs lung capacity tests, such as vital capacity and maximal breathing capacity. With the help of various analyzers, the technician measures the exhaled air and marks the readings on the analysis meters to transmit them to the doctor. A pulmonary laboratory technician must recognize the urgency of a ‘statistical’ test and give it top priority, working overtime if necessary.
Lung lab technicians often test different body fluids.
Working under general supervision, the pulmonary laboratory technician also performs blood gas analysis to determine blood oxygen saturation, pH levels, and hemoglobin count. He accomplishes this with the proficient use of sophisticated equipment such as blood gas analyzer, reflectance oximeter, microhematocrit centrifuge, and radiometer. The lab technician often has to measure chloride in sweat to check for cystic fibrosis and may be asked to help a doctor perform special procedures, such as a bronchoscopy.
Most pulmonary laboratory technicians are qualified to perform specialized pulmonary function tests on neonatal, intensive care, and critical care patients with the aid of improved mechanical equipment called “hugging machines” that measure exhalation levels. This requires a thorough understanding of cardiac arrhythmias and pulmonary physiology. Another common task is metabolic testing of patients on ventilators to measure gas exchange. The technician is often called in to perform a pulmonary function stress test, which includes EKG monitoring, ear oximeter tests, pulmonary mechanics, and gas exchange.
In addition to PFTs and other tests, the lab technician is usually also responsible for the proper function of all breathing apparatus. He tests, calibrates and maintains all machines to ensure correct readings, following standard procedures. The pulmonary laboratory technician must maintain daily laboratory reports and coordinate closely with the pulmonary division administrator and physicians, informing them of all laboratory activities.
Most senior pulmonary laboratory technicians play an active role in the training of medical students, house staff, and junior laboratory technicians. Another important duty of the laboratory technician is to consult with the patient in the treatment room and explain in detail the nature of the test and the procedures. He or she can also train the patient on the proper use of inhalers or other breathing devices.