Our Cardiopulmonary department performs a variety of different outpatient exams.
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
PFTs are non-invasive tests that show how well the lungs are working. The tests measure lung volume, capacity and rates of flow. This information can help your healthcare provider diagnose and decide the treatment of certain lung disorders. You will need a list of current medications as well as any allergies you are aware of. Without this information, the exam cannot be performed. If you take any breathing treatments or inhalers, they must not be taken 8 hours prior to exam. This exam is by appointment only and will take about one hour.
Bedside Spirometry
Bedside spirometry is a measurement of the breathing capacity of the lungs, such as in pulmonary function tests. This exam is by appointment only.
Electrocardiogram
EKG or ECG is a test that checks for problems with the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG shows the heart's electrical activity as line tracings on paper. No appointment is needed for this exam.
Arterial Blood Gas
This test measures the acidity (pH) and the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood from an artery. It is used to check how well your lungs are able to move oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide from the blood. No appointment is needed for this exam.