Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) Practice Exam

How often should equipment calibration be performed in a pulmonary function lab?

1. Once a month

2. Weekly

3. Every six months

4. Before each patient test

The correct answer is: Before each patient test

Calibration of equipment in a pulmonary function lab is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable test results. Performing calibration before each patient test helps to account for any potential variances or drift that can occur in the equipment due to usage or environmental factors. This practice is essential for maintaining the integrity of the measurements, as pulmonary function tests depend on precise readings to assess lung function accurately. Regular calibration is an integral part of quality control in a clinical setting, as it minimizes errors that could affect patient diagnoses and treatment plans. By calibrating the equipment before each test, technicians can verify that the devices are functioning correctly and producing valid data. In contrast, other proposed frequencies for calibration might not account for variations that can occur between patient tests. Monthly or biannual calibration schedules may not be sufficient to ensure consistent performance over time, particularly in a busy lab where equipment is subject to frequent use. Therefore, conducting calibration before each test ensures the highest standard of care in pulmonary function testing.