Manual of pulmonary function testing

After 25 years in print, this text remains the gold standard in the field for pulmonary function testing. The content covers the common tests and techniques, as well as the related pathophysiology, equipment, computers, and quality assurance. This edition introduces new information, including the most recent recommendations by the American Thoracic Society and the American Association for Respiratory Care. Coverage also offers expanded discussions of material from previous editions, providing the most cutting-edge information available. The book still retains its user-friendly, highly relevant appeal to practitioners of all levels.

Boxed facts directed at the entry-level practitioner provide basic knowledge on how to perform tests and interpret results. The pedagogical elements reinforce the most important information in each chapter and make it more memorable. The glossary includes important terms and gives the readers succinct, accurate reference to the definitions when they need them.

New chapter on pediatric pulmonary function testing provides up-to-date information to make patient coverage in the book more complete. Overview of pulmonary function studies gives a cohesive summary of the basic material in the chapter. Increased emphasis on "How to Do" basic tests makes the material more understandable with clear, step-by-step explanations. New objectives for both entry-level and advanced-level practitioners gives these two separate groups of users focused objectives for each chapter. New and updated content ensures that readers are current with developments in the field. Chapter on cardiopulmonary exercise testing features discussion of bronchial challenge, metabolic determination, preoperative evaluation, and other important topics on the subject. Section on new portable spirometers for use in primary care practices includes facts on equipment used for flow-sensing spirometers, breathing valves, peak flow meters, gas analyzers, blood gas electrodes and oximeters, body plethysmographs, and computers. New material addresses calibration, control, quality assurance, and safety issues, providing a troubleshooting guide for common problems with equipment. The second color used in text, illustrations, tables, and boxes highlights important features that should not be missed. The EVOLVE site, new to this edition, provides instructors with additional information and teaching tools to use in conjunction with the core text.

Gregg L. Ruppel, MEd, RRT, RPFT, St. Louis University Health Sciences Center, St. Louis, MO