PFT's for older children

[Ratatosk]

The question on infant PFTs got me thinking -- when do they usually do tests on older kids? What does it entail.

At our last local clinic appointment, someone mentioned that pretty soon DS should be ready for PFTs. I'm a little concerned because of the lack of germ/infection protocol at the clinic. People have posted on the adult board about concerns with the way some of the tests have been conducted. L

 

[NoExcuses]

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[tammykrumrey]

Liza,
My daughters started PFT's when they were around 6 years old (and the 5 year old started then b/c big sis was doing them, although the numbers really weren't very reliable due to being unable to blow properly-they just let her do them b/c she wanted to, just like big sis<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">) I don't feel that the numbers got what I call reliable until about a year later. To get my girls to 'learn' how to blow out with their mouth open, I bought some of those Blow Paint Pens. I think they are Crayola, but I don't remember for sure. They have to blow out pretty hard to get the paint out onto the paper, and they had a blast doing it<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
There is always risk when it comes to going into clinic as far as picking up germs. But I feel that the clinic we attend does a good job at cleaning up in between patients. I do worry, but the most I could do is to bring some disinfectant wipes with me and clean up everything myself. They have the kids clean their hands as soon as they get into the room, before touching anything. And they are not to touch anything in the 'treat' box when done. They point to what they want, and we get it out for them.
My girls do their PFT's every three months, and as Amy said, when sick, more often. Hope this helps!

 

[skh]

Liza, my daughter has her PFT's checked every 3 months when she goes in for her CF appt.