outpatient care

When you visit the pulmonary clinic at Dayton Children’s you will experience a comprehensive and consistent approach to your child’s care. Patients usually see the same provider, nurses and respiratory therapists on every clinic visit. This consistency is important for our patients, many of whom are dealing with a life-long breathing condition.

Clinics are staffed by our doctors and nurses specially trained to treat kids with breathing disorders. Our team also includes respiratory therapists, a social worker and a registered dietitian. A speech pathologist is available by appointment.

Our caring team not only provides expert medical care, but also understands how chronic breathing problems affect patients and their families on a day-to-day basis. They can answer questions and address whatever issues arise, always treating patients and families with compassion and respect.

what to expect

what to bring to your first appointment

• Any actual films or recent X-rays
• Child's medication bottles
• Test results, hospital records or clinic notes
• Toys, books or other activities for you and your child to do 

about the first visit

The first appointment can vary in length, but please allow three to four hours. The length of time depends on what information and the testing needed. Your child may do pulmonary testing, lab tests or a chest X-ray at the first visit. Other tests may be scheduled at a later date. 

A typical visit to our clinic can include:

• A physical exam
• Medical history
• A pulmonary function test (for children ages 5 and up) and, if needed, additional tests.
• Equipment checks (specifically for children with cystic fibrosis and those with a tracheostomy)
• A conversation about any test results, prescription refills and home care needs
• A consultation with our social worker or registered dietitian
• Education about managing your child’s condition at home
• Referrals for treatment or diagnostic tests

Prior to each appointment, we ask that parents/caregivers write down any current and new medications that their child is taking, as well as questions or concerns they may have.