Respiratory Care
The Pulmonary Function Lab provides
testing during regular working hours Monday – Friday. The staff is
comprised of board certified and registered technologists who are highly
skilled in pulmonary function testing on geriatric patients, adults, and
children. All tests performed by our lab are read by pulmonary physicians.
Aspects of the
Pulmonary Function Lab include the following:
1. Spirometry Test:
This is an noninvasive method to
determine airway obstruction and/or restriction. Spirometry may be done
before and after a bronchodilator has been given. Spirometry is valuable
for several reasons:
Establish baseline values
Monitor effects of treatment
Monitor the course of the
disease
Evaluate and quantify degree
of impairment
2. Methacholine Challenge:
This is a breathing test used to
assist the physician in diagnosing asthma.
3. Diffusion Capacity:
This is the only noninvasive
means of determining the functional integrity of the alveolar capillary
membrane. This measurement provides a means of differentiating pathologies
by the damage which they inflict on the lung parenchyma, such as the
reduction in alveolar capillary surface area seen in emphysema.
4. Plethysmography:
This is a closed chamber which is
used to determine the actual total gas volume in the lung as well as
resistance to airflow in the tracheobronchial tree.
NOTICE:
To order a pulmonary function
test, send the order across the computer system to the Pulmonary Function
Lab, or for any questions contact the pulmonary function lab at
701-530-8518.
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