Question

A subject performing an exhaled nitric oxide test has the following results: Trial 1 Trial 2 FENO 45 ppb 42 ppb. The technologist should do which of the following?

a) Repeat the test for accuracy
b) Report the average of the two trials
c) Disregard the results as inconclusive
d) Increase the flow rate during the test

Answer 1

The technologist should report the average of the two exhaled nitric oxide test trials, as readings within a 10% variation are usually considered consistent in clinical practice.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient performs exhaled nitric oxide tests and the results yield slightly different values, such as 45 ppb and 42 ppb, it's important for the technologist to evaluate the consistency of these trials. In the context of these results, which lie close to each other, the technologist should report the average of the two trials as the measure of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). A consistent reading within a 10% variation is generally acceptable in clinical practice. Assuming the trials were performed properly, reporting the average would provide a reliable assessment of the nitric oxide levels present in the patient's exhalation, which is useful for assessing airway inflammation in diseases such as asthma.