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HCA Midwest Health

Pulmonary diagnostic testing

At HCA Midwest Health, our pulmonologists in the Kansas City metro area perform various tests and procedures to diagnose lung and breathing conditions.

Bronchoscopy procedure—what to expect

The pulmonologists at HCA Midwest Health hospitals perform a variety of tests and procedures to diagnose lung and breathing disorders. During a bronchoscopy, a bronchoscope—flexible, long and thin telescope with an attached light—is used to view the airways and the lung passages.

Before your procedure

  • Do not eat or drink for six hours before the procedure. If you are a smoker, do not smoke for 24 hours before the procedure.
  • Empty your bladder before procedure.
  • Follow all of your doctor's instructions.
  • You may be given an IV to deliver pain and sedation medications.
  • Your nose and throat may be sprayed with medication to make them numb.

During your procedure

  • The procedure can take 30 to 60 minutes.
  • You will be lying on a bed or a special chair for the procedure.
  • The room may be darkened for a better view through the scope.
  • The doctor will insert the scope into your nose or mouth; you will be asked to swallow or take a deep breath.
  • You will not be able to talk during the test.
  • Mucous found in your lung passages will be suctioned.
  • The doctor may remove tiny samples for biopsy.
  • The lung passages may be photographed as part of your medical chart.

After your procedure

  • Nurses will monitor you for one hour after the procedure.
  • You will not be able to eat or drink until the effects of the medication have fully worn off.
  • The doctor will discuss the results with you either on your next office visit or by telephone.

Pulmonary exercise stress test—what to expect

The pulmonary exercise stress test determines how effective your lungs, heart and muscles function during times of stress. Physical stress is typically created by using a treadmill or stationary bike for exercise. It may help determine the cause of symptoms like shortness of breath.

Before your procedure

  • Come at least 30 minutes before the test.
  • Do not eat or drink for three hours before the test.
  • Do not smoke for 12 hours before the test.
  • If you have diabetes, ask your doctor or nurse what you may eat or drink before the test.
  • Some medications may be stopped prior to the test; ask your doctor or nurse about your medications.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes like sneakers.

Preparing for your procedure

  • Body hair may be shaved to place small pads on your upper body to monitor your heart rate.
  • A sensor will be placed on your finger to monitor oxygen in your blood.
  • You will be asked to wear a nose clip and breathe through a mouthpiece.

Before exercise, a spirometry test may be done to measure the amount of air you breathe in and out while at rest.

During the exercise:

  • You will be asked to keep the nose clip on and breath through the mouthpiece.
  • Your blood pressure, breathing and heart rate will be monitored.
  • You will be asked to exercise as long as you can.
  • Blood samples may be taken to measure oxygen and carbon dioxide during exercise.

After the procedure

  • You can resume your normal activity.
  • You can resume your normal medications.
  • The doctor will discuss the results with you on your next office visit or by telephone.

Pulmonary function test—what to expect

A pulmonary function test determines how well your lungs are working. It measures how much air you breathe out and how long it takes to empty your lungs. The test may be repeated after a breathing treatment to assess your progress.

Before your procedure

  • Do not smoke for 24 hours.
  • Do not take your breathing medication six hours before the test.
  • Do not eat or drink for two hours before the test.
  • Do not drink caffeinated beverages 12 hours before the test.
  • Let your technician know if you are experiencing:
    • Dizziness or fatigue
    • Pain, especially in your chest, arm or jaw
    • Sore throat or sore mouth
    • Unusual shortness of breath

During your procedure

  • The technician will explain the test.
  • You may be sitting on a chair and breathe through a mouth piece with a nose clip on. The mouth piece allows you to breathe through a machine.
  • For some tests, you may be asked to sit in a clear breathing chamber.
  • You will be asked to perform various breathing maneuvers. It is very important to follow the instructions at all times.

After your procedure

  • You can resume your normal activity.
  • You can resume your regular medications. If you are taking a bronchodilator, you may be asked not to take it for up to four hours if one was given during the test.
  • The doctor will discuss the results with you by telephone or at your next office visit.