About the Pulmonary Function Testing Laboratory:
The Pulmonary Function Testing Laboratory, a part of Respiratory Care Services, uses diagnostic services to guide therapeutic and management decisions for patients with lung disorders. Pulmonary function tests measure how well the lungs take in and release air, and how well they move oxygen from the atmosphere into the body’s circulation.
Licensed and board-certified respiratory therapists trained and experienced in pulmonary function testing and technology carry out the day-to-day operations of the PFT Lab.
Pulmonary Function Testing Laboratory Services
Pulmonary Function Testing Laboratory services include:
Pulmonary Function Tests
- Basic Spirometry (Forced Vital Capacity, Flow-Volume Loops, Flows)
- Pre- and Post-Bronchodilator Comparison Studies
- Lung Diffusion Capacity (DLCO)
- Lung Volume Studies (Total Lung Capacities)
- Methacholine Challenge Studies
- Pulse oximetry spot checks
Metabolic Exams
- Indirect Calorimetry, including substrate utilization, for nutritional assessment
Bronchoscopy Assist
Assist providers with these procedures:
- Advanced Diagnostic bronchoscopy
- Robotic Navigational Bronchoscopy
- Endobronchial Bronchoscopy (EBUS)
- Broncho-Alvelar Lavage (BAL)
- Therapeutic bronchoscopy
- Rigid Bronchoscopy
- Therapeutic Bronchoscopy ( Argon Plasma Coagulation, Cryotherapy, Laser, Electrocautery)
- Tracheal or Bronchial Dilation and Airway Stenting
- Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR)
- Brachytherapy
- Brachytherapy
- Percutaneous tracheostomy
Prophylactic/Therapeutic Treatment of Pneunocystis (sp) carinii pneumonia (PCP)
This is the only facility in the area providing protective booth required for use of pentamidine nebulizer treatments used as prophylaxis against or treatment of PCP in immunocompromised patients.
Preparing for the Tests
Do not eat a heavy meal, and do not smoke for 4 – 6 hours before testing. You’ll get specific instructions on whether you need to stop using bronchodilators or inhaler medications. You may have to breathe in medication before your test. Since the tests involve forced and rapid breathing, you may have some temporary shortness of breath or lightheadedness. You will breathe through a tight-fitting mouthpiece, and you’ll wear nose clips.
Pulmonary Function Testing Laboratory Locations
Since the tests involve forced and rapid breathing, you may have some temporary shortness of breath or lightheadedness. You will breathe through a tight-fitting mouthpiece, and you’ll have nose clips.
