Respiratory Therapy

Our Respiratory Therapy team provides skilled care for people with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia, COPD, heart attacks, and strokes. We assess breathing concerns, provide essential treatments, and support patients across all stages of care—whether in the hospital, during recovery, or in preparation for going home. At Vernon Health, our therapists combine clinical expertise with patient-centered support to help you breathe more comfortably and confidently.

Non-emergency services: 608-637-4497
Emergency/Reasonable Suspicion Testing: 608-637-2101

How Our Respiratory Therapists Help

Our therapists are trained in airway management, mechanical ventilation, and blood gas sampling related to ventilation. They play an essential role in monitoring and supporting breathing during critical situations.

Expert Airway Care

Therapies & Home Support

We administer oxygen therapy, aerosol and humidity treatments, incentive spirometry, inhaler instruction, and home nebulizer or oxygen setups. We also provide non-invasive ventilation when needed.

Emergency & Newborn Support

Respiratory therapists assist during medical emergencies and provide specialized support when complications arise during newborn care.

Breathing Assessments

Our team performs pulmonary-function testing and other evaluations to help patients and providers better understand lung health and identify the right treatment approach.

Services & Testing

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Home Oxygen Evaluation

Some patients need oxygen during a hospital stay to maintain safe oxygen levels. When preparing for discharge, respiratory therapists assess whether oxygen will be needed at home—either short-term or long-term. Therapists determine the appropriate oxygen level and whether it is needed at rest, during sleep, or with activity.

Overnight Oximetry

Overnight oximetry measures oxygen saturation and heart rate during sleep. This cost-effective tool helps identify possible sleep-disordered breathing and assists providers in diagnosing conditions such as sleep apnea. Results help determine the severity of breathing disturbances and guide treatment plans.

Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary function testing evaluates how well the lungs work and can detect early to advanced respiratory diseases, including asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and COPD. This physician-ordered test may include a bronchodilator to assess whether medication improves breathing. A respiratory therapist guides the patient through breathing exercises while equipment measures lung volumes and airflow.

Incentive Spirometry

Incentive spirometry encourages slow, deep breathing to help expand the lungs. The device provides visual feedback as patients inhale for several seconds. This therapy helps prevent lung complications—such as atelectasis—often seen after surgery due to pain or shallow breathing. Regular use keeps smaller airways open and supports healthy lung expansion.

FAQ

Have questions about care at Vernon Health? Our team is here to help. For more information or to speak with someone about your care, please call (608) 637-2101.

What conditions do respiratory therapists treat?

Respiratory therapists support patients with many breathing and cardiovascular conditions, including asthma, COPD, pneumonia, emphysema, and complications related to heart attacks or strokes. They help evaluate symptoms and provide therapies that improve breathing and comfort.

Why might I need oxygen at home?

Some patients require oxygen during recovery to maintain safe blood oxygen levels. A respiratory therapist evaluates how your oxygen levels respond to rest, activity, or sleep and determines the amount needed for your safety.

How does incentive spirometry help after surgery?

Incentive spirometry helps expand the lungs, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of atelectasis. Using the device regularly after surgery supports deeper breathing and improves lung function.

Who performs respiratory therapy services at Vernon Health?

Our licensed respiratory therapists provide all evaluations and treatments. They work closely with your care team to ensure safe, effective support tailored to your needs.

Here for Your Health

At Vernon Health, we’re committed to providing patient-centered, compassionate care wherever you are in your health journey. Explore our trusted providers and convenient locations to find the right support for you.