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The exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) test detects exposure to CO in the last 12-18 hours. This can be used to assess smoking status AFTER a quit attempt and used prior to a quit attempt as a motivational tool. Higher levels (parts per million) equate with greater inhalation of tobacco smoke assuming the cause is tobacco smoking. It must be noted that the exhaled CO test indicates recent exposure to CO and will not indicate smokeless tobacco use and is not a measure of dependency.

Alongside a detailed clinical history and other important tests to assess variability (peak flow, reversibility and challenge tests) it is used to support the diagnosis of asthma. PCRS has produced this consensus position on the use of FeNO in primary care to support the diagnosis of asthma. The article reviews the NICE and BTS/SIGN clinical guideline recommendations on the issue. It also explores the benefits, limitations and challenges of using this test in the primary care setting. The article concludes that:

The PCRS position on changes to QoF.

We have guidelines on asthma from two different sources in the UK – BTS/SIGN and NICE. The British Asthma guideline from BTS/SIGN was first published in 2003 and is well established, respected and comprehensive. NICE decided to develop first a guideline on diagnosis and monitoring in asthma, and then a guideline on asthma management, and they finally came together in a single published guideline in November 2017. 

Briefing document for National Respiratory Strategies – the NHS Long term plan and Lung Health Taskforce 5 year plan.

This is the most recent briefing paper on the latest update to the BTS/SIGN British Asthma Guideline.

In this short article for Spring 2019 issue of Primary Care Respiratory Update, Carol Stonham and Tricia Bryant reflect on recent advances in digital technology which may help and support affiliated groups to maintain momentum, retain engagement of members and help facilitate virtual meetings to overcome geographical issues. Find out more about PCRS Affiliated Groups.

Respiratory nurse practitioner Carol Stonham will achieve two PCRS firsts when she takes over from Dr Noel Baxter as Executive Chair in September 2019. She will become both the first female and the first nurse leader, reflecting the changing and progressive outlook of PCRS. Read more about Carol and her achievements.

Fran Robinson talks to Dr Dayo Kuko on her experience of the PCRS Respiratory Leader Programme and how it has helped her deal with conflict, influence others and gain confidence in her professional role. Originally published in the Winter 2018 edition of the Primary Care Respiratory Update. Find out more about the Respiratory Leadership Programme