Noseclips are used to prevent the leak of air out the nose during a spirometry test, and are especially important during a relaxed manoeuvre to ensure the measurement reflects the patient’s true lung volumes.

Nose-clips can either be single use, partially single use, or reusable depending on the department protocol. Skin infections that can be transmitted by direct contact include impetigo and conjunctivitis.

Alcohol wipes may be used to wipe down nose-clips provided they are not made of a sponge material. However, it is strongly advisable to dispose of nose clips after single use.

If a patient cannot tolerate a noseclip, they should be asked to pinch their nose.