Table 1 Checklist of factors that the patient should avoid prior to spirometry
ActivityLength of time to stop before spirometry
Drinking alcohol4 h
Eating a large meal2 h
Vigorous exercise30 min
Smoking>1 h
Medication useDocument treatment and when last taken
For reversibility testing
 Taking short-acting bronchodilators6 h
 Taking long-acting bronchodilators (including combination inhalers) or twice-daily preparations24 h
 Taking tiotropium or once-daily preparations48 h