Pediatric Pulmonary Function Testing in COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond. A Position Statement From the Hellenic Pediatric Respiratory Society

What Have We Learned About Transmission of COVID-19: Implications for PFT and Pulmonary Procedures

Because of the potential for high aerosol transmission during pulmonary function testing and pulmonary procedures, performing these tests and procedures must be considered carefully during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Much has been learned about the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by aerosols and the potential for such transmission through pulmonary function tests and pulmonary procedures, and subsequently preventative practices have been enhanced and developed to reduce the risk of transmission of virus to patients and personnel. This article reviews what is known about the potential for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 during pulmonary function testing and pulmonary procedures and the recommended mitigation steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Re-opening the pediatric pulmonary function laboratory during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic continues with new waves of intensification. This review provides an update based on international recommendations concerning the conduct of pulmonary function testing in a manner to limit risk to both patient and tester.