SPIRO

Objective measurement of respiratory function is of primary importance in the assessment of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. However, the interpretation of respiratory function tests, especially spirometry tests, is considered suboptimal in primary care.

A team from the Quebec Heart and Lung Institute affiliated with Laval University (IUCPQ-UL) developed an interactive mobile application called SPIRO© to facilitate the interpretation of spirometry tests.

The SPIRO© app guides healthcare professionals and medical students in interpreting spirometry tests by entering basic data from a spirometry report (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC). The software gives a diagnostic suggestion to the user based on pre-set intervals.

In addition to being a resource for educational material (explanatory video, questionnaires, documents related to respiratory health guidelines), the SPIRO© application guides the user in applying the guidelines in respiratory health by providing the necessary references (scientific articles, respiratory health guidelines) to develop a treatment plan.

The app allows:
- Optimizing interpretation of spirometry;
- Obtaining a diagnostic suggestion;
- Obtaining a treatment suggestion according to respiratory guidelines;
- Getting quick access to respiratory health guidelines;
- Facilitating the work of health professionals;
- Carrying out better follow-up of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma;
- Obtaining continuing education through specific and relevant educational material. 

This tool was developed by the Chair in Knowledge Translation, Education and Prevention in Respiratory and Cardiovascular Health affiliated with Laval University in collaboration with the IUCPQ-UL.