Spirometry

Question 1

What is spirometry?

Answer 1

Method of assessing lung function by measuring volume of air that the patient is able to expel after a maximal inspiration.

Question 2

What is FEV1?

Answer 2

Forced expiratory volume after 1 second – the volume of air exhaled in the first second after deep inspiration and forced expiration (similar to PEFR).

Question 3

What is FVC?

Answer 3

The toral volume of air that the patient can forcibly exhale in one breath (the highest point in the spirometry line)

Question 4

How are FEV1 and FVC values expressed?

Answer 4

As a percentage of the predicted normal for a person of the same (1) sex, (2) age, and (3) height.

Question 5

What are the reference ranges for FVC, FEV1 and ratio?

Answer 5

More than 80% of predicted for both, and >0.7 FEV1/FVC.

Question 6

How do you present spirometry?

Answer 6

1. INTRODUCE: Patient, gender, height, age
2. Assess quality – three consistent curves are required, and the best reading should be used in your interpretation
3. Present findings

Question 7

What does an obstructive spirometry pattern look like?

Answer 7

Reduced FEV1 and FVC (but to lesser extent). FEV1/FVC ratio is less than 0.7

Question 8

What does a restrictive spirometry pattern look like?

Answer 8

Reduced FEV1 and FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio normal