Oregon used to be home of the worldâs tallest Sitka spruce, until a winter storm snapped the tree practically in half. But, as Pete Springer reports, the spruce will remain on the state's list of heritage trees. If youâve driven Highway 26 to the Oregon coast, youâve probably seen the sign that says, âWorldâs Tallest Sitka Spruceâ. The sign is still there, but a December storm snapped off the 200-foot tall tree. That led to debate over whether Oregonâs first heritage tree still deserved the status.
Purpose of Pulmonary Function Tests. In the diagnosis of COPD, pulmonary function tests are performed to assess lung function and determine the degree of damage to the lungs. Along with a patient's history and physical, lung imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan) and open lung biopsy, PFTs are critically important to evaluate respiratory health.
Use this guide for a quick study session, and you'll be ready to go. A pulmonary function test (PFT) evaluates how well your lungs work. PFTs measure the amount of air in your lungs, how well the lungs move air in and out, and possibly how medications affect the lungs. Your doctor may send you for PFTs to diagnose a lung disease, measure the severity of lung problems, as a pre-operative work-up or to see if a treatment is working for your lung disease. A respiratory therapist will guide you through each test in a special exam room that has all the lung function measuring devices.