The following describes breathing disorders, particularly in children. For specific information regarding your child’s health and treatment options, please contact your Hurley physician or medical professional.

The highest level of pulmonology services for the region

With 45 respiratory therapists on staff, Hurley Medical Center offers complete, high-quality respiratory therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation services for all of our patients, including inpatient treatment and outpatient programs. Our respiratory therapists are among the most skilled in the field; many of our therapists have more than 20 years of experience, and some members of our staff have been at Hurley for nearly 35 years. We have one of the only pediatric and neonatal intensive care units in the area, and have developed detailed assessment protocols to ensure quality of care and treatment delivery for the full spectrum of respiratory issues.

Children's Breathing Difficulties

Children may experience breathing difficulties for a variety of reasons. Some may suffer from persistent conditions, such as asthma, cardiac disorders or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Others may have problems breathing as a result of traumatic injuries or other emergencies. Breathing problems can arise in people of any age, from premature babies (whose lungs may be underdeveloped at birth) to seniors.

Inpatient Respiratory Therapy

The Hurley respiratory therapists are specially trained healthcare professionals who treat and help restore proper breathing for patients with a variety of problems. Our therapists work in virtually every department at Hurley Medical Center, from the Emergency Services unit to the Intensive Care (ICU), Pediatric Intensive Care (PICU) and Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) units, and the NeuroTrauma unit.

We provide breathing treatment and assistance for patients with heart or lung problems, or who may be receiving oxygen therapy. We also regularly treat patients who require the use of tracheostomy tubes (a breathing tube for patients who cannot breathe normally through their mouth and/or nose) or ventilators (machines that breathe for patients who may not be able to breathe on their own, including patients with spinal cord injuries or paralysis).

Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

For many patients with COPD and other chronic breathing problems, outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation can have a lasting, positive impact on the quality of their lives. Hurley Medical Center’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, at the Hurley Health & Fitness Center (HHFC), is a six-week, 36-session exercise curriculum that helps patients improve their overall fitness and ability to manage the daily activities of life. The pulmonary rehabilitation program will provide your child with a customized exercise program designed by highly experienced fitness professionals. Your child will be monitored throughout his/her training sessions, and may participate in individual exercises and group activities. Physician follow-up is also a part of the program. For more information, call (810) 262-2200 or click here.