Pre-Transplant: Pulmonary Function Diagnostic

This test measures lung capacity and functionality.  It is particularly important because lung function can be negatively impacted during the high-dosage radiation and/or chemotherapy administered just prior to the transplant.  Your transplant team will use this preliminary test to measure your lung recovery during the year following your transplant.


There are two components to this test; a collection of arterial blood for blood gas analysis, and a set of breathing exercises to evaluate your lung capacity.  The breathing exercises are somewhat physically difficult (you have to blow air out of your lungs for some seconds longer than you feel that you have air left), but not at all physically painful.



However, the blood collection for blood gas analysis is from the artery (usually in your wrist), and is more difficult and more painful than a acquiring a blood sample from a vein.  Arteries are deeper and harder to reach, so it may take a few minutes to access it.  Additionally there are nerve bundles in your wrist that can cause discomfort while attempting to reach your artery.  Breathe deep, try to relax and be patient – it’s still a relatively quick procedure.  Note: You will retake this test periodically over the years, but usually you won't need additional blood collections after the first time.

Pulmonary Function Diagnostic – Teri	Type	Rating	Duration
Arterial Blood Collection	Sharp stick/ probing	4-5	2-5 min.
Pulmonary Function	Anxiety	1-2	20-30 min.

Pulmonary Function Diagnostic –	Type	Rating	Duration
Arterial Blood Collection
Pulmonary Function