Respiratory Volumes

Question 1

Which respiratory volumes are measured on expiration?

Answer 1

1. FRC = functional residual capacity (air remaining the lungs after a normal expiration (ERV + RV)
2. ERV = expiratory reserve volume (amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after a normal expiration)
3. RV = residual volume (amount of air remaining in the lungs after a forced expiration)
4. VC = vital capacity (maximum amount of air that can be expired after a maximum inspiration)

Question 2

What are the respiratory volumes measured on inspiration?

Answer 2

1. IC = inspiratory capacity (amount of air that can be inspired after a normal inhalation)
2. IRV = inspiratory reserve volume (amount of air that can be forcefully inhaled after a normal tidal volume inspiration)

Question 3

What is tidal volume?

Answer 3

The amount of air that is inhaled or exhaled with each breath under normal conditions

Question 4

What is a normal FEV1 and what are pathological findings with FEV1?

Answer 4

FEV1 = amount of air exhaled during 1 second of a spirometric test

Healthy: 80% of FVC
< 80% = obstructive disease
> 80% = restrictive disease

Question 5

What is spirometry?

Answer 5

An assessment of pulmonary function using a spirometer

- measures respiratory volumes and respiratory capacities

Question 6

What are the 4 respiratory volumes?

Answer 6

1. Tidal Volume
2. Inspiratory Reserve Vol
3. Expiratory Reserve Vol
4. Residual Vol

Question 7

What are the 4 respiratory capacities?

Answer 7

1. Total Lung Capacity
2. Vital Capacity (exhale after maximum inhalation)
3. Inspiratory Capacity (maximum inhale after normal TV expiration)
4. Functional Residual Capacity (air remaining in lungs after a normal exhalation)