Pulmonology

Pulmonology is considered a branch of internal medicine and is related to intensive care medicine. Pulmonology often involves managing patients who need life support and mechanical ventilation. Pulmonologists are specially trained in diseases and conditions of the chest, particularly pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, and complicated chest infections.

Medication is the most important treatment of most diseases of pulmonology, either by inhalation (bronchodilators and steroids) or in oral form (antibiotics, leukotriene antagonists). A common example being the usage of inhalers in the treatment of inflammatory lung conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Oxygen therapy is often necessary for severe respiratory disease.

While in the hospital, patients may see a Respiratory Therapist come in and give them a breathing treatment if they have any kind of lung condition such as COPD, Pneumonia, Asthma, or Bronchitis. They also assist patients who need supplemental oxygen and nighttime assistive devices known as CPAP or BiPAP machines.

HHC offers Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT).

Sleep studies are available at HHC 2 days a month. At-home kits are also available.

 
Melissa Hoferer, APRN

Melissa Hoferer, APRN works at CHI Health Good Samaritan Clinic. She earned a Master of Science Degree, specializing in acute care from the University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Division, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.