Pulmonary function testing is a tool used to assess changes we can see with certain respiratory diseases. Through different tests we offer at our Pulmonary Function Laboratory, we can better diagnose and monitor your child's condition, helping us provide the prompt and effective treatment.
A pulmonary function test (PFT) is a non-invasive, painless test. Most tests are done with a mouthpiece filter and nose clips, and the use different parts of your child’s breathing patterns to understand symptoms and disease.
One of our therapists will accompany you and your child to a testing room. During your child's PFT, we allow only one parent or guardian to stay in the testing room due to the nature of the tests and available space. Other adults, children or siblings can stay in our waiting room.
Our therapists will make sure your child is comfortable with the tests as we walk through the different steps. Since pulmonary function tests are effort dependent (require things like a forced breath out or ability to hold one’s breath); not all children will be able to perform the tests. Some younger children may not produce clinically useful results, but it can still be helpful to practice the techniques used to obtain the clinical information. If your child is able to perform the testing, therapists will coach your child to achieve the best effort.
Results of your PFTs are shared with your ordering provider and available via MyChart. We will not review your results with you in the PFT appointment. Your provider may ask you to return for follow-up testing or a different type of test to obtain the necessary information about your child's lung health. If you have any questions about your child’s specific test or our procedures, please contact the PFT Laboratory for more information.
3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3026
© 2026 Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. All rights reserved.
