Foundation Certification is required for practitioners who perform safe, accurate and reliable spirometry tests without interpretation. This is usually but not exclusively Health Care Assistants or Assistant Practitioners.

On the 12th September 2016 there was the launch of a competency assessment framework “Quality Assured Spirometry” which sets the minimum competency standards for healthcare practitioners performing spirometry. The framework will be fully implemented by 31st March 2021.

The ARTP are now responsible for holding the national register of spirometry certified practitioners at all levels.
You can view the National Register here: https://artp-register.org.uk/

3 Levels of Competency Assessed

Foundation:

For those who have been assessed as competent to perform safe, accurate and reliable spirometry tests without interpretation E.g. Health Care Assistants or Assistant Practitioners who carry out the tests.

Full:

For those who have been assessed as competent to perform and interpret spirometry in terms of physiological changes. E.g. General Practice Nurses with a special interest in respiratory conditions.

Interpretation only:

For those who have been assessed as competent in interpretation only. E.g. General Practitioners

The ARTP certificate of competence is the only route to the National Register of spirometry certified practitioners. It entails a portfolio of evidence (all levels) and a practical examination (full and foundation).

Becoming Certified

It is no longer necessary to undertake training before completing the Spirometry certificate of competence. Therefore, training and certification can be undertaken separately.
If you are new to Spirometry or your training is more than 3 years old, it is highly recommended that you undertake the training to ensure your practice is up to date.
If you are an experienced Spirometry Practitioner who needs to get onto the national register, but trained less than 3 years ago, you may not need to undertake the training. However, if you fail the assessments you will be required to undertake the training before progressing and will be charged a rebooking fee for the failed assessment.

Re-Certification

Registration is valid for 3 years before it requires renewing by submitting a re-accreditation portfolio. You will be reminded 6 months prior to expiry to give you time to prepare.

Training Provider

The Institute of Clinical Science and Technology (ICS&T). ICS&T is the ARTP partner training provider. Training is offered at foundation, interpretation and full levels.

Foundation and Full – blended course

The course combines online learning and a half day workshop. It is designed using cutting edge techniques to make learning flexible, enjoyable and useful. You are in direct contact with support throughout the course and with colleagues via forums and have access to regular webinars. Additionally, the course remains available to you once you are on the register as a useful resource and aide memoir. The half day workshop addresses the practical aspects of taking Spirometry measurements. You choose the date and venue of your workshop when you sign up.

Reference