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The standard of spirometry in the RSA
1Department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Parowvallei, CP.
Summary
Spirometry quality in South Africa is largely unsatisfactory, with poor calibration and knowledge of standards. Most practitioners need training in clinical spirometry to improve patient care.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Medical Education
Background:
- Spirometry use is increasing in South Africa, but formal quality standards are lacking.
- This study assessed the current standard of spirometry in clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the quality of spirometry performance and knowledge among practitioners in South Africa.
- To identify areas for improvement in clinical spirometry practices.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire administered via personal interview was used to assess 45 spirometer users.
- Responses were graded based on correctness, covering calibration, knowledge of standards, patient instructions, and data interpretation.
Main Results:
- Only 6 spirometers were regularly calibrated; knowledge of standards and calibration was poor to unsatisfactory.
- Interpretation of results, including acceptability, reproducibility, and bronchodilator response diagnosis, was largely unsatisfactory.
- Most practitioners lacked knowledge of reference value sources and struggled with diagnosing typical test results.
Conclusions:
- Clinical spirometry standards in South Africa are predominantly unsatisfactory.
- There is an urgent need for practical, clinical spirometry training at all medical education levels.