Pulmonary Function Technologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly advancing field of healthcare, the role of Pulmonary Function Technologists is increasingly critical.

As medical technology evolves, so too does the need for skilled professionals who can effectively conduct, interpret, and manage pulmonary function tests.

But let’s delve deeper: What is really expected from a Pulmonary Function Technologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of pulmonary function technology,

You’ve landed in the right spot.

Today, we present a fully customizable Pulmonary Function Technologist job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pulmonary Function Technologist Duties and Responsibilities

Pulmonary Function Technologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in conducting tests and procedures related to respiratory health.

They play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating lung-related disorders.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Performing and interpreting pulmonary function tests such as spirometry, gas diffusion studies, and lung volume measurements
• Operating and maintaining respiratory equipment including volume and flow measurement devices, gas analyzers, and blood gas analyzers
• Collaborating with healthcare providers to develop and implement treatment plans for patients with lung disorders
• Ensuring patient comfort and safety during testing procedures
• Recording and documenting patient data and test results accurately in medical records
• Adjusting and calibrating respiratory equipment as needed
• Explaining test procedures and results to patients and their families
• Keeping up to date with advancements in pulmonary function technology and implementing new techniques and procedures as appropriate
• Participating in quality control and improvement activities

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Pulmonary Function Technologist to join our healthcare team.

The responsibilities include performing pulmonary function tests, providing assistance in pulmonary procedures, and ensuring patient safety.

A successful candidate should be proficient in medical technology, have excellent attention to detail, and possess strong communication skills.

A deep understanding of pulmonary function tests and procedures is essential.

 

Responsibilities

• Performing pulmonary function tests as ordered by physicians.
• Ensuring all equipment is properly calibrated before tests.
• Analyzing and interpreting test results, and reporting any abnormal findings to the physician.
• Maintaining patient records and documenting test results.
• Ensuring the patient comfort and safety during tests.
• Teaching patients about test procedures and respiratory exercises.
• Identifying and troubleshooting any technical problems with the equipment.
• Complying with health and safety regulations.
• Staying informed about the latest developments in pulmonary technology.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Pulmonary Function Technologist or a similar role.
• Excellent knowledge of pulmonary function tests and procedures.
• Proficient in using medical equipment and devices.
• Good understanding of health and safety regulations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• A degree in Respiratory Therapy or a similar field.
• Certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) as a Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pulmonary Function Technologist
• Work Environment: This role is based in a hospital or clinic setting. The position may require working in shifts, on weekends, or on holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Pulmonary Function Technologist or Respiratory Therapy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pulmonary Function Technologist Do?

Pulmonary Function Technologists, also known as Respiratory Function Technologists, primarily work in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare institutions.

They may also work for medical diagnostic laboratories or academic institutions.

Their main responsibility is to perform pulmonary function tests on patients under the direction of a healthcare provider, such as a pulmonologist.

These tests help to diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

A significant part of their job involves operating and maintaining a variety of medical testing devices, including spirometers and plethysmographs.

They are also tasked with calibrating these devices to ensure they produce accurate and reliable results.

Pulmonary Function Technologists educate patients on the testing process, instructing them on how to use the equipment correctly to obtain the best results.

They need to ensure the patients are comfortable and understand the procedure.

In addition to conducting tests, they are responsible for analyzing and interpreting the data obtained from these tests.

They prepare detailed reports for physicians or other healthcare providers, noting any unusual findings that might indicate a pulmonary disorder.

They also often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.

This may involve recommending therapeutic procedures or explaining the necessity of certain medications to manage respiratory conditions.

Continuous professional development is crucial in this role, as new technologies and methods are constantly being introduced in the field of respiratory care.

Therefore, Pulmonary Function Technologists must stay updated on the latest advancements in their field.

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Pulmonary Function Technologist should have the skills and qualifications that adhere to your job description, such as:

• Deep understanding of pulmonary function tests including spirometry, lung volumes, and diffusion capacity, to accurately assess the patient’s lung function.
• Strong technical skills to operate and maintain pulmonary function equipment, ensuring its proper functioning and accuracy of results.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to interact with patients, explaining the procedures and ensuring their comfort and cooperation during tests.
• Attention to detail to record and interpret test results accurately, recognizing any anomalies and inconsistencies.
• Strong knowledge of safety protocols and infection control procedures to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment issues, and to adapt testing methods according to patient’s condition or responses.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with doctors and other medical staff to discuss test results and treatment plans.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients and conduct tests, which may require standing or bending for extended periods.

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pulmonary Function Technologists often have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually achieved through an internship or part-time role in a relevant healthcare setting.

They might have experience with duties like performing lung function tests, operating and maintaining pulmonary equipment, and assisting with patient care.

Candidates with about 3 years of experience often gain their initial skills and knowledge in junior roles such as Respiratory Therapist or Medical Technologist.

They should have a solid understanding of pulmonary function tests, therapeutic procedures, and patient care.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed more advanced technical skills and would typically have a deeper understanding of respiratory diseases and pulmonary disorders.

They might also have experience supervising others and managing a lab, which could make them suitable for senior or managerial positions in the field.

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Education and Training Requirements

Pulmonary Function Technologists typically hold a minimum of an associate’s degree in respiratory therapy or a closely related field.

Some advanced roles may require a bachelor’s degree in respiratory care or a relevant science discipline.

These programs educate students on respiratory conditions, testing procedures, and treatment protocols.

In addition to a degree, many technologists choose to become certified.

The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) offers the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) and the Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) credentials.

Certification requires passing an exam, and it may also require a certain amount of practical experience in a clinical setting.

This certification indicates a high level of proficiency and dedication to the profession.

Furthermore, most states require Pulmonary Function Technologists to be licensed, the requirements for which generally include a minimum education level and passing a state or national exam.

Continuing education is often necessary for technologists to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

Many technologists also opt for advanced courses and workshops to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Being certified and/or having a bachelor’s degree may indicate a candidate’s potential for leadership roles and dedication to ongoing learning in the field.

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Salary Expectations

A Pulmonary Function Technologist earns an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can fluctuate based on factors such as individual experience, the employing healthcare institution, and geographical location.

 

Pulmonary Function Technologist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Pulmonary Function Technologist need?

A Pulmonary Function Technologist typically needs a minimum of an associate degree in respiratory therapy, although many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

They also need to have a Respiratory Therapist license.

Some states may require Pulmonary Function Technologists to have specific certification, such as the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or the Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) certification.

 

What are the daily duties of a Pulmonary Function Technologist?

A Pulmonary Function Technologist typically starts their day by reviewing the schedule of patients they will be testing.

They then prepare the pulmonary function lab for the day’s tests, ensuring all necessary equipment is clean and functioning properly.

Throughout the day, they perform a variety of lung function tests on patients, interpret the results, and report the findings to the supervising physician.

They also educate patients on how to perform the tests and any necessary follow-up actions.

 

What skills are necessary for a Pulmonary Function Technologist?

A Pulmonary Function Technologist must have strong attention to detail in order to accurately perform and interpret tests.

They also need good communication skills to explain procedures to patients and report findings to physicians.

Manual dexterity is important for operating complex equipment, as is the ability to stand for long periods of time.

Technologists also need to be able to handle stressful situations and remain calm and patient with individuals who may be anxious or uncooperative.

 

What qualities make a good Pulmonary Function Technologist?

A good Pulmonary Function Technologist is compassionate and empathetic, as they often work with patients who are experiencing distress or discomfort.

They are also problem solvers who can think critically and make quick decisions when faced with unexpected situations during testing.

They must be organized and efficient in their work to ensure that all patients are seen in a timely manner and that all data is accurately recorded and reported.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the dynamic and rewarding world of a pulmonary function technologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about running tests.

It’s about contributing to a healthier future, one breath at a time.

With our detailed pulmonary function technologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why stop there?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to creating precise job listings or finessing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every breath you measure is a step closer to a healthier life.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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