Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)

How long will it take? 1 hour

What will happen?

The Pulmonary Function test measure how well your lungs work.

  1. You will be asked to breathe in different ways (the way you breathe normally, and later breath slow, fast, and deep) through a plastic tube in your mouth.
  2. We will look at how your lungs are working before and after the use of albuterol, a medicine that is used by millions of people with asthma or other lung conditions.

Sometimes, the study protocol requires that we do the Pulmonary Function Test at a follow-up appointment.

How do I prepare?

  • Day before: Let the coordinator know if you take breathing medication.
  • Day of test: Wear a loose fitting top. You will be ask to remove tight/restricting undergarments or tops (i.e. binder), if possible.
  • 8 hrs before test: Do not drink alcohol or perform vigorous exercise .
  • 2 hrs before test: Avoid a heavy meal (example: burger and fries – not a lot or something light).
  • 1 hr before test: Do not smoke or vape.

Will I be told my results?

We can share results with you and your doctor, if requested. However, results will NOT be posted in MyChart. A RECOVER clinician will contact you with and recommend a follow-up with a doctors for additional testing.

If your results are abnormal, the RECOVER clinical team will call you within 10 days to provide any necessary recommendations for follow up.