RPFT Spirometry Technique & Maneuver Acceptability Flashcards

A significant bronchodilator response is defined by ATS/ERS as an increase in FEV1 or FVC of at least how much?

Answer: ≥12% and ≥200 mL above baseline

ATS/ERS criteria define a significant bronchodilator response as an increase of ≥12% AND ≥200 mL in FEV1 or FVC to distinguish true physiologic change from measurement variability.

What is the primary purpose of applying nose clips during spirometry?

Answer: To prevent air leakage through the nose, ensuring all flow passes through the mouthpiece

Nose clips ensure that all inspired and expired air passes through the mouthpiece, preventing underestimation of volumes due to nasal air leakage.

Which abnormality is characterized by a normal FEV1/FVC ratio with a reduced TLC, FVC, and FEV1?

Answer: Restrictive pattern

Restriction is defined by reduced lung volumes (TLC < LLN) with a preserved or elevated FEV1/FVC ratio, reflecting reduced lung size rather than airflow limitation.

When should the RPFT terminate a maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) maneuver early?

Answer: If the patient becomes light-headed, faint, or shows signs of distress

MVV is a fatiguing maneuver and must be stopped immediately if the patient shows clinical signs of distress such as dizziness, syncope, or hypoxia.

What does the forced expiratory time (FET) measured during spirometry represent?

Answer: Total duration of the forced exhalation from start to end of airflow

FET is the total elapsed time from the start of forced exhalation until no further flow is detected, and serves as a quality indicator for exhalation completeness.

In pediatric spirometry, what modification to adult ATS/ERS acceptability criteria is recommended?

Answer: A minimum exhalation time of 3 seconds is acceptable for children under 10

ATS/ERS guidelines allow a minimum exhalation time of 3 seconds for children under age 10 because their smaller lungs empty much faster than adult lungs.