Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy at Lackey Memorial Hospital

At Lackey Memorial Hospital, our Respiratory Therapy Department provides specialized care for patients with both acute and chronic breathing disorders. From asthma to emphysema, pneumonia, cardiovascular issues, and trauma-related conditions, our certified respiratory therapists are dedicated to supporting patients’ respiratory health at every stage.

What is Respiratory Therapy?

Respiratory therapy involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of breathing disorders that affect the cardiopulmonary system. Our respiratory therapists provide care to patients of all ages—from premature infants to elderly adults. With expertise in managing complex respiratory conditions, our team delivers care across the hospital, including the emergency room, intensive care unit (ICU), skilled nursing facility, and rehabilitation areas.

Respiratory Therapy Services and Specialized Care

In addition to routine respiratory care, our therapists are trained to handle life-support situations, manage airway obstructions, and assist with long-term breathing management. Patients also benefit from diagnostic assessments, such as sleep studies in our on-site Sleep Clinic, to uncover underlying respiratory and sleep-related conditions.

Eva Grace Johnson, Respiratory Director

Our Respiratory Therapy Services Include:

  1. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) – These tests evaluate lung capacity, function, and gas exchange to help diagnose conditions like COPD, asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis.

  2. Holter Monitoring – This wearable device tracks heart activity over 24-48 hours, detecting irregular heart rhythms associated with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

  3. EKG/ECG (Electrocardiogram) – A quick, non-invasive test that records heart activity, helping detect any abnormalities linked to respiratory distress or cardiac issues.

  4. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Testing – Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, providing crucial data for patients with respiratory failure or chronic lung disease.

  5. Breathing Treatments – For patients with asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions, we offer inhalation therapies to open airways and relieve symptoms.

  6. Oxygen Therapy – Administers oxygen to patients with low oxygen levels, supporting respiratory function in patients with both short-term and chronic needs.

  7. Airway Management – Ensures open airways for patients experiencing severe respiratory distress, using advanced techniques to support breathing.

  8. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) – CPAP and BiPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea and other breathing disorders by providing steady air pressure to keep airways open.

  9. Pulse Oximetry – A simple test that monitors blood oxygen saturation, essential for assessing patients with respiratory conditions and adjusting oxygen levels.

  10. Pulmonary Disease Education – Our therapists provide patients and families with education on managing pulmonary conditions, helping improve outcomes and quality of life.

  11. Smoking Cessation Support – We offer resources and counseling to help patients quit smoking, reducing their risk for respiratory and cardiac issues.

24/7 Respiratory Therapy Support

Our respiratory therapy team is available around the clock, ensuring that patients receive timely, expert care whenever they need it. With a commitment to providing the highest level of respiratory and cardiac support, we are here to assist with everything from emergency interventions to long-term disease management.