A 60-year-old male hospital patient with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is undergoing lung function tests to gauge the progression of his disease. Which of the following aspects of the lung volumes will the respiratory therapist be most justified in using to guide interpretation of the test results?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vital capacity is determined by combining inspiratory reserve, expiratory reserve, and tidal volume. Total lung capacity always exceeds vital capacity, given that it is not possible to completely empty the lungs. Tidal volume becomes wider during exercise, and expiratory reserve is neither equal to nor synonymous with residual volume.

A 60-Year-Old Male Hospital Patient with a Diagnosis of Chronic