The use of ndd devices regarding COVID-19

We have received various inquiries from customers wondering how safe it is to use spirometers in the days of COVID-19 \| PFT - Spirometry · 1 min read

Together against CORONA!

During the past few days, we have received various inquiries from customers wondering how safe it is to use spirometers in the days of COVID-19, because of the assembly of patients with lung disease and the potential for coughing and aerosol formation surrounding pulmonary test devices.

We have spoken to numerous experts, analyzed the advice provided by national and regional associations, and are glad to share the information gathered so far.

Healthcare providers are strongly advised to generally suspend spirometry, as well as lung function testing, and limit it to those tests deemed essential to making important medical decisions relating to treatment. In addition, all necessary measures to protect both staff and the individuals being tested must be in place.

Protective measures include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) that limits aerosolized droplet acquisition for staff, as well as enhanced cleaning of the testing spaces.

Use of personal protective equipment should be evaluated together with your infection control team and some general guidance can be found in the ndd hygiene statement provided in the link below.

The risk and benefit ratio of performing lung function tests needs to be continuously evaluated and we will keep you up to date on the current recommendations.

Please find more information here:

American Thoracic Society (ATS)
The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ)
Spanish Society of Pneumology and Thoracic Surgery (SEPAR)
ndd Statement COVID-19