HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR OSCILLOMETRY

Oscillometry is a type of pulmonary function test that is very non-invasive, making it suitable for both adults and children. It is used to examine and diagnose lung problems. Although spirometry has been used for quite a while now, it presents a challenge in achieving reliable results in pediatrics because a doctor can only observe reproducible respiratory maneuvers of children aged five years.

Beyond spirometry: oscillometry is a very non-invasive technique that mechanically examines the airways via pressure fluctuations during tidal breathing. It is widely gaining popularity in the science community as the ideal option for children or as an alte ative to evaluate lung function in kids who cannot perform spirometry properly. Oscillometry examines the airways' resistance depending on the production of small pressure oscillations applied in the mouth and then transmitted to the lungs to measure the respiratory system. It can be used in all age groups, but it has gained a lot of interest in the pediatric group because it does not require forced expiratory maneuvers. It only requires passive patient cooperation.

Key things to note about oscillometry

• Oscillometry is a test to check if the lungs or airways are blocked due to respiratory problems and conditions such as asthma.
• The test results are measured on a computer that shows the airflow rate into the patient's lungs.
• Oscillometry test involves having the patient breathe normally via a tube connected to a computer.
• The doctor may ask the child to breathe severally to get an accurate measure.
• Oscillometry is a non-invasive procedure that takes around twenty minutes.
• The test may be repeated a second time, about 15minutes after the child has use bronchodilator medication.
• The child may be able to resume normal activities and diet after the test.

Home preparation of your child before the test

Basically, only a little preparation is required before oscillometry because it is a non-invasive test. The essential preparation practices are:

• Your child should not use their short-acting asthma medication at least 4hours before the test.
• They are allowed to wear normal clothes.
• It is good to bring along your child's favorite toy to keep them calm and relaxed during the test.

What happens during oscillometry?

• A pulmonary function testing technician or physician is the only one who can perform oscillometry. In the case of a technician, a doctor oversees the whole process and also reviews the results. So here is what happens during the procedure:
• The patient sits in a chair next to the oscillometry machine. The test is done with clothes on, so they are not asked to remove anything.
• The doctor places a padded nose clip on the patient's nose to ensure they only breathe through their mouth. The doctor may ask them to hold their cheeks so that they don't expand and contract.
• The doctor asks the patient to place a sterile mouthpiece in their mouth and breathe normally.
• Gentle air pulses come out through the tube, and they may feel like popping corn because the patient can feel them on the cheeks and chest.
• The patient may be required to breathe a few more times for accurate and reliable results.
• Then the doctor reviews the test results with the patient to initiate a treatment plan.

conclusion

Oscillometry provides a reliable way to examine the respiratory function system and diagnose any problem with the airways.