Management of and Quality Control in the Pulmonary Function Laboratory

Management of the pulmonary function laboratory (PFL) encompasses multiple components that directly impact the integrity of the data. Interpretation and application of the results are dependent on quality systems that begin with qualified personnel that have received adequate training and oversight. The American Thoracic Society (ATS)/European Respiratory Society (ERS) acceptability and repeatability standards for pulmonary function testing (PFT) must be understood by the medical director and staff to achieve the desired results. Management of the equipment, scheduling procedures, documents, and regulatory compliance are also required of a well-managed PFL system. Each of these components is included in the ATS assessment checklist for accreditation of PFLs and is required for laboratory accreditation.