Top 10 Questions for Pulmonary Function Technician Interview

1. Describe the key components of a pulmonary function test (PFT) and explain their purpose.

• Spirometry: measures lung volumes and flow rates to assess potential airflow limitations.
• Lung volumes: measures the total lung capacity, vital capacity, and residual volume to evaluate lung size and function.
• Diffusion capacity: measures the ability of oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass through the lung alveoli into the bloodstream.
• Plethysmography: measures airway resistance and lung compliance to assess lung mechanics.
• Exercise testing: evaluates lung function during physical activity to assess exercise tolerance and capacity.

2. Explain the principles of spirometry and how it is used to diagnose and manage pulmonary diseases.

Interpretation of Spirometric Parameters

• Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1): measures the amount of air exhaled in the first second of forced expiration and indicates airflow limitations.
• Forced vital capacity (FVC): measures the total amount of air exhaled during a forced expiration and reflects lung volume.
• FEV1/FVC ratio: the percentage of FVC expired in the first second, which provides an indication of airflow obstruction.

Clinical Applications

• Diagnosis: obstructive disorders (e.g., asthma, COPD), restrictive disorders (e.g., interstitial fibrosis), and mixed disorders.
• Monitoring: tracking disease progression, response to treatment, and determining functional capacity.
• Management: guiding treatment strategies, adjusting medications, and evaluating the need for pulmonary rehabilitation.

3. Describe the different types of lung volumes and how they are measured.

• Tidal Volume (TV): the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing.
• Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV): the volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal inspiration.
• Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV): the volume of air that can be exhaled after a normal expiration.
• Residual Volume (RV): the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal expiration.
• Total Lung Capacity (TLC): the sum of all lung volumes, representing the maximum volume of air the lungs can hold.

Measurement Techniques

• Body plethysmography: measures all lung volumes by enclosing the patient in a sealed chamber.
• Spirometry: measures TV, IRV, and ERV by having the patient perform forced exhalations and inhalations.
• Nitrogen washout: measures RV by rebreathing nitrogen and measuring the rate of nitrogen dilution.

4. Explain the importance of bronchodilator reversibility testing in the diagnosis of asthma.

• Reversible airflow limitation: a positive bronchodilator response (improvement in FEV1) suggests the presence of reversible airway narrowing consistent with asthma.
• Differential diagnosis: helps distinguish asthma from other conditions with fixed airway obstruction, such as COPD.
• Monitoring: repeated testing can assess response to treatment and adjust bronchodilator therapy.
• Research: provides insights into the pathophysiology and severity of asthma.

5. Describe the role of diffusion capacity testing in the evaluation of lung diseases.

• Assesses the ability of gases to diffuse across the alveolar-capillary membrane, indicating lung parenchymal function.
• Diagnosis: interstitial lung diseases (e.g., fibrosis, sarcoidosis), pulmonary vascular diseases (e.g., pulmonary embolism), and emphysema.
• Monitoring: tracking disease progression and evaluating response to therapies.
• Prognosis: predicting outcomes in certain lung diseases, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

6. Explain the principles of respiratory muscle testing and its clinical applications.

• Measures the strength and endurance of inspiratory and expiratory muscles using specialized equipment (e.g., pressure transducers, flowmeters).
• Diagnosis: neuromuscular disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophy), respiratory muscle weakness (e.g., critical illness, deconditioning).
• Monitoring: evaluating the effectiveness of respiratory muscle training programs and assessing respiratory muscle fatigue.
• Research: investigating the pathophysiology of respiratory muscle dysfunction and exploring novel therapeutic approaches.

7. Describe the role of sleep studies in the evaluation of sleep-disordered breathing.

• Polysomnography: a comprehensive sleep study that monitors multiple physiological parameters (e.g., brain activity, breathing patterns, oxygen levels) to diagnose sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia.
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) titration: a specialized sleep study to determine the optimal CPAP pressure for treating obstructive sleep apnea.
• Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT): assesses daytime sleepiness and helps diagnose narcolepsy and other hypersomnias.

8. Explain the importance of quality control in pulmonary function testing.

• Ensures accurate and reliable test results for clinical decision-making.
• Minimizes variability between different equipment and technicians.
• Adherence to established standards and guidelines (e.g., ATS/ERS guidelines) promotes consistent practices.
• Establishes a framework for ongoing quality improvement and error reduction.

9. Describe your experience with using computerized pulmonary function testing systems.

• Proficient in operating various computerized PFT systems (e.g., EasyOne, Spirolab).
• Familiar with the software features for data acquisition, analysis, and reporting.
• Experienced in troubleshooting and maintaining computerized PFT equipment.

10. How do you stay up-to-date with advancements in pulmonary function testing techniques?

• Attend conferences and workshops on PFT.
• Read scientific journals and publications.
• Participate in continuing education programs.

Pulmonary Function Technicians (PFTs) play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by assisting in the diagnosis and assessment of respiratory conditions.

1. Patient Assessment

PFTs conduct comprehensive patient assessments, including obtaining medical histories and performing physical examinations.

• Collect vital signs including blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation.
• Administer questionnaires to gather information about symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history.

2. Pulmonary Function Testing

PFTs perform a variety of pulmonary function tests to evaluate lung function and identify respiratory disorders.

• Spirometry: Measures lung volumes and airflow rates.
• Plethysmography: Assesses lung volume, airway resistance, and gas exchange.
• Diffusing capacity test: Measures the ability of oxygen to pass from the lungs into the blood.

3. Data Analysis and Interpretation

PFTs analyze and interpret test results to support diagnostic decisions.

• Compare results to established norms and identify deviations.
• Identify patterns and trends in test data.
• Provide written reports summarizing findings and recommendations.

4. Equipment Maintenance and Calibration

PFTs ensure the proper functioning and calibration of pulmonary function testing equipment.

• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance checks.
• Calibrate equipment according to manufacturer’s specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

5. Patient Education and Counseling

PFTs educate patients about respiratory conditions and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications.

• Explain test results and discuss implications for diagnosis and treatment.
• Provide smoking cessation counseling and support.
• Offer recommendations for exercise programs and breathing techniques.

Preparing thoroughly for an interview is essential for showcasing your qualifications and impressing potential employers.

1. Research the Company and Position

Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and the specific role you’re applying for.

• Visit the company website and read about their history, products/services, and team.
• Review the job description and note the key responsibilities and qualifications required.

2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

Anticipate typical interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses.

• Tell me about your experience in pulmonary function testing.
• Describe your understanding of a particular pulmonary function test (e.g., spirometry).
• How do you handle working with patients with respiratory conditions?

3. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

Emphasize your relevant skills, qualifications, and experience throughout the interview.

• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency in pulmonary function testing.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare insightful questions to ask the interviewer about the position, company culture, and career advancement opportunities.

• What is the typical advancement path for Pulmonary Function Technicians within the organization?
• Can you describe the team culture and how PFTs collaborate with other healthcare professionals?

5. Follow Up Professionally

After the interview, send a thank-you email reiterating your interest and key points discussed.

• Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview.
• Summarize your qualifications and how they align with the position.