What are the tests for respiratory failure?

Depends...: The diagnosis of respiratory failure is typically made on the basis of abgs and the overall clinical picture. But, the cause of the respiratory failure needs to be diagnosed so it can be treated. To diagnose the cause of the respiratory failure requires a diagnostic work-up beginning with a history and physical exam which will then determine the rest of the work-up.

Pulmonary function: Is the main test of which useful information can be obtained about lung capacity and the amount of lung reserve someone has. It needs to be done by a lab/office that does these tests routinely and interpreted by someone who is trained in the pulmonary function --usually a pulmonologist or critical care physician.