Cora has a Pulmonary Function Test
Explore how pulmonary function tests measure how well your lungs are working through the journey of a cute little dog.
Pediatric Pulmonary Function Laboratory
Welcome to the Pediatric Pulmonary Function Laboratory at Hasbro Children's. Our experienced staff, advanced diagnostic tools and equipment, and educational services are an excellent resource for primary care providers, pediatric pulmonary patients and their families.
Our staff is trained to conduct pulmonary testing on children and to read and interpret pediatric findings.
Our equipment is specially calibrated to pediatric patients. Our staff is trained to conduct pulmonary testing on children and to read and interpret pediatric findings. Medical direction is provided by the pulmonary division of the department of pediatrics at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. We accept direct referrals for testing by primary care provides.
Diagnostic Services
Our diagnostic services include:
- Spirometry: This most commonly used test measures lung volume (vital capacity) and flow. The test can identify obstruction and is essential in the diagnosis and management of asthma. Spirometry is appropriate for children ages six and older.
- Lung volumes: Measurement of all lung volumes or capacities is indicated to identify restrictive lung disease. Children ages eight and older can usually perform the test maneuvers.
- Bronchial challenge with methacholine: Airway responsiveness is assessed by administration of increasing doses of methacholine, an agent that provokes bronchospasm. The child must be able to perform spirometry to complete this test.
- Diffusion capacity (DLCO): This test measures the transfer capability of the lung for carbon monoxide.
- Impulse oscillometry (IOS): IOS is a new alternative modality to the conventional pulmonary function test (cPFT) to test lung mechanics.
Patient Education
Our lab is staffed by a registered respiratory therapist trained to educate patients and families about the tools of monitoring and managing lung disease.
Educational services include instruction in:
- Medication administration - including inhaler with holding chamber, dry powder inhalers and aerosol nebulization
- Peak flow monitoring
- Airway clearance techniques, for those at risk for atelectasis or with retained airway secretions