Pulmonology

Respiratory illnesses can include a variety of problems, including common colds, chronic cough, respiratory infections (such as RSV or the flu) and pneumonia. Some children may also have chronic illnesses that affect the breathing system, including asthma and cystic fibrosis (CF).

Conditions Treated

Complete diagnostic, therapeutic and consultative services for infants, children and adolescents with chronic respiratory disorders such as:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Asthma
• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (chronic lung disease of prematurity)
• Chronic cough
• Recurrent pneumonia
• Chronic bronchitis
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Tracheostomy
• Home ventilators
• Sleep problems
• Apnea
• Lung malformations
• Muscle problems that affect breathing
• Swallow dysfunctions
• Rare lung diseases

Pulmonary function and treatment services

• Spirometry with and without bronchodilator challenge
• Lung volume analysis
• Lung diffusion studies
• Airway resistance measurement
• Respiratory muscular strength assessment
• Exercise airways challenges
• Complete cardiopulmonary stress testing

The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) defines respiratory therapy as a specialized healthcare field where practitioners are trained in pulmonary medicine, in order to work therapeutically with people suffering from pulmonary disease.

When it comes to being a respiratory therapist, the AARC says:
Service to others is the foundation of the respiratory care profession. RTs make it their mission to deliver consistent, high quality patient care. You’ll find RTs helping improve the care of patients at all stages of life and in dozens of circumstances. Keeping the patient experience forefront is paramount. Treating each patient with skill, dedication, and genuine care makes the respiratory care profession a vital piece to the entire health care system.