FAQs: Pulmonary Function testing:

1. What is a Pulmonary Function Test?
   A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a measurement of airflow and volume.
   
   
2. Who is a candidate for a PFT?
   Anyone with a known lung disease, or a person having shortness of breath.
   
   
3. What is a PFT with DLCO?
   A specific test designed to see how well gases could travel across the alveolar-capillary or lung membrane.
   
   
4. What is a Methacholine Challenge Test?
   Test used to determine the extent of airway hyper-reactivity. This test is typically performed on patients with a history of shortness of breath but may have a normal lung function study.
   
   
5. How will the test feel and how long does the test take?
   The test generally takes 45 minutes to an hour and there is usually no discomfort.
   
   
6. Where is the PFT being performed?
   The lab is located on the 2 nd floor of Baltimore Washington Medical Center between CCU and 2BC.
   
   
7. Do I need a referral?
   Yes. Just like any other test, you need to get a referral from your Primary Care Physician.
   
   
8. Do I need to pre-register?
   Yes. Admitting is located on the 1 st floor in the main lobby. The phone number is 410-787-4452. However you will need to sign and pick up your paperwork on the day of your appointment.
   
   
9. Should I take any medicine?
   You should take any medicine you are prescribed on your normal schedule except:
   - Any inhaler 4 hours prior to the test.
   - Any nebulizer 4 hours prior to the test.
   - Any long acting inhaler that day (i.e.) Flovent, Serevent, Pulmicort, Vanceril.
   
   


10. Should I avoid anything?
    Yes, you should avoid: coffee, alcohol and chocolate 6 hours prior to the test. No smoking 4 hours prior to the test. No big meals 2 hours prior to the test.