Spirometry Basics & ABG
Course Objectives
- Explain the fundamental principles of spirometry testing, including measurement techniques, key values, and clinical applications.
- Identify the purpose and interpretation of arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, with emphasis on oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base balance.
- Recognize common errors in specimen collection, handling, and patient performance that can compromise both spirometry and ABG results.
- Compare and contrast the insights provided by spirometry and ABG testing, highlighting how they complement one another in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions.
- Apply collaborative interpretation strategies through case-based scenarios, demonstrating how combining spirometry and ABG results enhances patient care and clinical decision-making.
Course Content
Course Creator: Kristen Moylan BSPH, CCRC
Total CE Hours: 1 Credit Hour
Pace Course #: 586-2414-25
Course Overview:
Course Overview:
Respiratory health is central to overall well-being, and accurate testing plays a vital role in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating pulmonary conditions. Two of the most commonly used tools, spirometry and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, offer unique insights into a patient’s respiratory status. When used together, they provide clinicians with a more complete and accurate understanding of lung function, gas exchange, and acid-base balance. This course, Spirometry Basics & ABG: Collaboration Between Testing Mediums, introduces learners to the fundamentals of both testing methods while emphasizing how they complement one another in clinical practice. This course is geared toward CPT2 professionals and higher or for CPT1 professionals working toward higher certification. We will place an emphasis on precision, collaboration, and professional accountability in respiratory diagnostics as we move through this content. Whether participants are new to the concepts or seeking a structured refresher, they will leave with a deeper appreciation of how these two diagnostic tools, when properly utilized together, strengthen clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
References:
References:
- CDC. (2012). Spirometry Quality Assurance: Common Errors and Their Impact on Test Results. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2012-116/pdfs/2012-116.pdf
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022, February 18). Arterial Blood Gas (ABG). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22409-arterial-blood-gas-abg
- Cleveland Clinic . (2024). Spirometry (Lung Function Test). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17833-spirometry
- Haynes, J. (2018). Basic spirometry testing and interpretation for the primary care provider. Canadian Journal of Respiratory Therapy, 54(4), 92–98. https://doi.org/10.29390/cjrt-2018-017
