The Cardiopulmonary Department is staffed with Registered Respiratory Therapists who provide a 24 hour service to patients with respiratory illness at TDH.  As part of the multidisciplinary team, we are involved with all patient populations in all areas of the hospital.  The performance of patient assessments, various diagnostic tests and the provision of evidence based treatment help to restore health and provide knowledge to our patients about the management of their illness.  A core part of our role is providing mechanical ventilation in ER, ICU and the Nursery.

Respiratory Therapists also provide diagnostic testing and treatment in the out-patient setting.  Your medical provider can refer you for the following:

• Pulmonary Function Testing – A series of tests that measure your lung function, provide a diagnosis and give your physician information about treatment.
   
• Home Oxygen Assessments – An arterial blood sample and measurements of your oxygen level during exertion are performed to determine if you meet the criteria for Home Oxygen Program funding.
   
• Paediatric Asthma Education Centre – A Certified Asthma Educator provides asthmatic patients and their families with extensive education, management skills and treatment options.
   
• Holter monitoring – A heart monitor worn for 24 or 48 hours that provides a continuous record of your heart’s rate and rhythm.
   
• COPD Clinic – A certified Respiratory Educator provides COPD patients and their families, in depth education, management skills and treatment options in order to maintain the best quality of life and reduce emergency visits and hospital admissions.
   
• ECG – An electrocardiogram provides the physician with a brief tracing of your heart’s rate and rhythm while you are at rest.
   
• Cardiac Stress Testing – Exercise stress tests as well as imaging stress tests (MIBI, Persantine) are available to assist your physician in evaluating your cardiac status.

For all out-patient testing, you will be contacted with an appointment time and you will be provided with information about preparing for your test(s) at that time.