Pulmonary Function

Your family doctor may order breathing tests or they may refer you to a Respirologist who may order testing. Your doctor will submit requisitions for testing to occur.

Referral Process

Pulmonary Function is a referral based service that requires a requisition be signed by the ordering physician and faxed to the Pulmonary Function Department.  Requisitions must include a return fax number (for prompt result reporting), desired test(s), diagnosis, patient name and PHN.  Appointment time and date will be organized through the Pulmonary Function Department. 

Services include:

  • Complete Pulmonary Function Test
  • Drop-in Spirometry
  • Bronchial Challenge test (Methacholine)
  • Arterial Blood Gases
  • Walking Oximetry
  • Overnight Oximetry
  • Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (VO2max)

Forms

What to Expect

On the day of your appointment a Respiratory Therapist will introduce themselves to you and introduce you to any support staff that will be helping out with the procedure.  After reviewing your history the Respiratory Therapist will explain the equipment that they will be using to perform the testing.   Breathing tests generally require you to perform a variety of breathing maneuvers which you will be coached through.  Please wear comfortable clothing that allows for comfortable movement.  Some tests require that you walk or jog.  Appropriate and comfortable shoes will ensure safe testing.  Bring any prescribed breathing medications to the appointment however the medications may need to be held before breathing tests.  Pulmonary function tests can take between 30-90 minutes.