2005 ATS/ERS Spirometry Standard – Key Changes

A new list of relative contraindications was added.
Spirometers are now required to meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 26782 standards, but with a maximum permissible accuracy error of ±2.5%.
Device quality assurance procedures were updated.
Operator training as well as attainment and maintenance of competency were addressed.
The list of activities that patients should avoid before testing was updated.
There is a focus on the use of devices that measure both expiration and inspiration.
Maneuver acceptability and repeatability criteria were updated. The end of forced expiration (EOFE) was redefined.
Requirements for spirometry systems to provide uniform cues and feedback to the operator were added.
New withholding times for bronchodilators before bronchodilator responsiveness testing were developed.
A new grading system for assessment of spirometry quality was developed.
Standardized operator feedback options that promote synoptic reporting were developed.
Preliminary findings derived from an international patient survey were presented.