Text: Elina Kiviaho, Medikro and Ulla Jokikokko-Karvonen, OAMK

Medikro has collaborated with Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences for several decades. Medikro’s spirometers are an important part of teaching related to lung function testing. At Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OAMK), biomedical laboratory scientist and lecturer Ulla Jokikokko-Karvonen has had consistently positive experiences with both the spirometry devices and the collaboration with Medikro.

Practical learning with spirometers

At OAMK, spirometers are an integral part of practice sessions where students get hands-on experience with performing tests. Jokikokko-Karvonen’s responsibilities include ensuring that the devices remain in working order, ordering necessary supplies, and contacting Medikro in case of any issues.

“I have also held practice sessions where students use Medikro’s spirometry devices. The devices have worked flawlessly, and their clear software and Finnish-language interface make teaching situations easier,” Jokikokko-Karvonen explains.

At OAMK, spirometry testing is practiced during specimen collection and clinical physiology courses as well as in simulation exercises. Spirometry is taught by a team of several teachers.

Feedback from students and colleagues has been positive. The devices are considered simple to use, and manufacturer’s manuals along with instructional videos produced by Medikro support teaching exceptionally well.

“The spirometry software can sometimes be almost too smart – the fictional personal ID codes I created for practice sessions weren’t accepted by the software, which caused a small surprise,” Jokikokko-Karvonen adds with a smile.

Smooth cooperation and support for decades

The collaboration with Medikro has been long-term and reliable. Communication regarding maintenance, supplies, and troubleshooting has been quick and straightforward – both during Jokikokko-Karvonen’s earlier work in clinical practice and now in her teaching role at OAMK.

“I have always received help from Medikro whenever needed, and the contact information and instructions are clearly available on their website. The collaboration has met my needs excellently for already twenty years,” Jokikokko-Karvonen notes.

She also recalls a situation from clinical work when there was a suspicion about the functionality of a calibration syringe: “I contacted Medikro’s support, and soon a spare syringe was delivered to the workplace. The original syringe was sent for inspection and returned quickly – everything went smoothly.”

Ideas for future development

Long-standing cooperation does not rule out new development ideas. For example, creating shared learning material could further support spirometry teaching.

“It would be great if students had access to simplified and clear material about spirometry – considering that they do not yet have in-depth knowledge of clinical physiology. It would also be interesting if students could participate in Medikro’s training sessions free of charge or at a reduced price. These sessions are an excellent opportunity to learn correct device usage directly from the manufacturer. Often, valuable discussions arise between Medikro’s trainers and professionals performing spirometry tests, which would also benefit students,” Jokikokko-Karvonen summarizes.

Responsibility and environmental considerations are also important themes for Jokikokko-Karvonen. “It would be good to focus on reducing waste and promoting recycling in the use of supplies. In addition, devices intended for teaching could have a tailored maintenance plan, since they are used much less intensively than devices in clinical practice.”

The collaboration between Medikro and OAMK illustrates how long-term partnership can support both education and practical work. Reliable devices, clear software, and easily accessible customer support have made spirometry a seamless part of student training. Joint development ideas – such as producing new learning material and strengthening sustainability – provide a solid foundation for continuing collaboration in the future, for the benefit of both students and healthcare professionals.

Medikro spirometry devices in use at the Kontinkangas campus of Oulu University of Applied Sciences. Photo: Ulla Jokikokko-Karvonen

Medikro borrowed spirometry equipment for educational use to the Kajaani satellite group of biomedical laboratory science students at Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OAMK) in December 2024. It is important for students to be able to practice during their studies with the same devices that are used in working life. This strengthens practical skills and makes the transition to internships and post-graduation tasks smoother. Photo: Elina Kiviaho