How to Be Pulmonary Function Technologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 14, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Pulmonary Function Technologists are healthcare professionals who use specialized equipment to measure and record a patient's lung capacity and air flow. By doing so, they are able to diagnose and treat conditions related to the heart, lungs, and upper airways. The Pulmonary Function Technologist must have a good understanding of anatomy and physiology and be able to explain the test results to the patient.

As a result, the patient is able to make informed decisions about their treatment options. This may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or other medical interventions. In addition, Pulmonary Function Technologists may be required to perform pulmonary stress tests, bronchoprovocation tests, and other test types.

By utilizing these specialized services, doctors can better determine the cause of a patient's breathing difficulties and develop an effective treatment plan.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. To become a Pulmonary Function Technologist, you must have at least a high school diploma or a GED.
Take College Courses. Many employers prefer to hire Pulmonary Function Technologists who have some college-level education. Taking classes in science, math, and physiology can provide the necessary knowledge and skills for the job.
Attend an Accredited Training Program. To become certified as a Pulmonary Function Technologist, you must attend an accredited program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and universities. They cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and pulmonary technology.
Get Certified. After completing an accredited program, you must pass the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to become certified as a Pulmonary Function Technologist.
Obtain Licensure. Depending on the state, you may need to obtain licensure or certification before you can work as a Pulmonary Function Technologist.
Find Employment. Once you have obtained your certification and licensure, you can start searching for jobs in Pulmonary Function Technology. You can look for job openings in hospitals, clinics, and research facilities.

Reliability and efficiency are two important factors for any Pulmonary Function Technologist to consider when performing their job. To ensure that these factors are met, it is necessary to have the right tools, knowledge, and skills. Having the proper tools and equipment available is essential for the accuracy of the results.

having the proper knowledge and experience with the equipment will allow for faster and more reliable test results. Furthermore, having the necessary skills to interpret the results accurately will ensure that the patient receives the best possible care. All of these elements combined will ensure that a Pulmonary Function Technologist can be both reliable and efficient in their job.

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Job Description

Administer pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to patients, including spirometry, diffusion capacity, and plethysmography.
Calibrate and maintain PFT equipment to ensure accuracy of test results.
Record patient test results and prepare reports for the physician.
Educate patients on the purpose and procedure of PFTs before administering the tests.
Assist with the interpretation and analysis of test results.
Follow established safety procedures while performing PFTs.
Document patient information in accordance with hospital/clinic policies.
Perform quality control checks on PFT equipment to ensure accuracy of results.
Train new staff members on the use of PFT equipment and procedures.
Participate in continuing education and training programs to maintain and improve skills.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of pulmonary anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of pulmonary disease and respiratory disorders
Proficiency in the use of pulmonary function testing equipment
Knowledge of relevant safety protocols
Ability to interpret pulmonary function test results
Ability to follow established protocols for performing pulmonary function tests
Knowledge of relevant data collection and recording procedures
Ability to provide clear instruction to patients prior to performing tests
Ability to maintain accurate records of patient data
Ability to troubleshoot technical problems with pulmonary function testing equipment
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team

The role of a Pulmonary Function Technologist is to perform tests to measure the functions of the lungs. This involves assessing a patients lung capacity and measuring the amount of air they can inhale and exhale. The most important skill for this profession is excellent communication.

Being able to effectively interact with patients and explain the tests and results is essential. A good understanding of physiology and the ability to accurately record, interpret, and report data are also important. Good organizational skills are also necessary to stay on top of patient records and ensure that all tests are completed in a timely manner.

Having a strong scientific background and knowledge of medical terminology is also beneficial. With these skills, a Pulmonary Function Technologist can ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of lung-related conditions.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with pulmonary function testing equipment?
What methods have you used to educate patients on their test results?
How do you ensure accuracy and consistency in test results?
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques used in pulmonary function testing?
What protocols do you use in order to prepare patients for testing?
What have been some of your most challenging cases and how did you handle them?
What strategies have you employed to ensure quality control in your work?
How do you interact with physicians and other health care professionals to ensure successful outcomes?
How do you handle difficult or uncooperative patients during testing?
What techniques do you use to ensure patient safety during pulmonary function testing?

Common Tools in Industry

Spirometer. A device used to measure lung capacity and the flow of air into and out of the lungs. (eg: EasyOne Pro Spirometer)
Peak Flow Meter. A device used to measure the maximum speed of air being exhaled from the lungs. (eg: Micro Peak Flow Meter)
Ventilator. A device used to provide artificial breath to patients who cannot breathe on their own. (eg: Draeger V200 Ventilator)
Capnograph. A device used to measure the amount of carbon dioxide in a patient's exhaled breath. (eg: Nellcor N-595 Capnograph)
Oximeter. A device used to measure the amount of oxygen in a patient's blood. (eg: Masimo Rad-8 Pulse Oximeter)
Thoracic Plethysmograph. A device used to measure the volume of air in a patient's lungs. (eg: Vitalograph Thoracic Plethysmograph)
Pulmonary Function Testing Software. A computer program used to analyze and interpret data collected during pulmonary function tests. (eg: MedGraphics PFT Software)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC)
American Thoracic Society (ATS)
American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP)
American Lung Association (ALA)
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)
American College of Medical Pulmonology (ACMP)
Association of Pulmonary Function Technologists (APFT)
Association for Respiratory Technology and Physiology (ARTP)
American Society of Respiratory Care (ASRC)
International Society for Clinical Pulmonary Physiology (ISCPP)

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Common Important Terms

Spirometry. A diagnostic test that measures how much air a person can breathe in and out, as well as how fast they can do it.
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV). The amount of air a person can forcibly exhale in one second.
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). The total amount of air a person can forcibly exhale after taking a deep breath.
Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF). The maximum flow rate at which a person can forcibly exhale.
Total Lung Capacity (TLC). The total amount of air in the lungs when taking a deep breath.
Residual Volume (RV). The amount of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation.
Diffusion Capacity (DLCO). The ability of oxygen to move from the lungs into the bloodstream.
Oxygen Saturation (SpO2). A measurement of the amount of oxygen in the blood.
Lung Volume Measurement. A technique used to measure the functional residual capacity, residual volume, and total lung capacity of a persons lungs.
Body Plethysmography. A diagnostic test used to measure the amount of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pulmonary Function Technologist (PFT)?

A Pulmonary Function Technologist is a healthcare professional who is responsible for conducting pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to diagnose and assess the treatment of patients with respiratory diseases.

What are the duties of a PFT?

The duties of a Pulmonary Function Technologist include performing and interpreting pulmonary function tests, monitoring patient's responses to therapy, and educating patients on their respiratory condition and treatment.

What qualifications are needed to become a PFT?

To become a Pulmonary Function Technologist, you must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a formal training program, and pass the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

How much does a PFT earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Pulmonary Function Technologists in 2018 was $54,180.

What is the job outlook for PFTs?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for Pulmonary Function Technologists will grow by 11% from 2018-2028. This growth is much faster than the average for all occupations.