ATS Pulmonary Function Laboratory Manual

ATS Pulmonary Function Laboratory Management & Procedure Manual | 3rd Edition

Effective Date: 2014 Version #1

Chapter 3

Procedure Name: Quality System Essentials for General Operational Issues

Purpose or Principle The pulmonary function (PF) laboratory intends to provide services that ensure adherence to the quality system model for Respiratory Services, and conform to state, federal, or other regulatory agencies. The purpose of this procedure is to assure the proper management of a PF laboratory, including establishment of a mission, scope of practice, and organizational structure to provide the foundation of a laboratory’s operation. A quality system should be described and implemented to ensure good laboratory practices throughout the path of work flow.

Responsibility The medical director of the PF laboratory and laboratory management staff, if applicable, are responsible for all aspects of ensuring that the system meets the quality objectives required of the department (1).

Organization and Administration 1. Mission statement 1.1.

The PF laboratory mission statement should be consistent with the mission, vision, and values of the healthcare system. 1.2. The PF laboratory is responsible for the production of accurate and timely results for all testing performed. 2. Scope of practice 2.1. The PF laboratory staff may be responsible for analyzing and obtaining physiologic specimens, inter- preting physiologic data, performing tests of the cardiopulmonary system, monitoring hemodynamic functions, assisting with diagnostic procedures, applying and monitoring medical gases and aerosols, and administering pharmacologic agents related to respiratory care procedures. 2.2. Other duties may include performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation; acquiring, repairing and/or maintaining equipment; assuring quality control, monitoring performance improvement, providing community service and education, charting and record keeping, educating other healthcare provid- ers, and conducting research. 2.3. The age range of laboratory and staff competence should be specified. For example, the PF Labora- tory can competently perform testing on adult and pediatric patients (ages 4 and up).

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