The respiratory care practitioner determines that a patient has increased airway resistance.How was this identified?
A) On the flow-volume loop by evaluating the shape of the curve
B) On the flow-volume loop by identifying the maximum delivered volume
C) On the pressure-volume loop by the amount of beaking
D) On the pressure-volume loop by the amount of bowing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Changes in airway resistance may be assessed by observing the hysteresis displayed in the loop.Hysteresis is the space between the inspiratory and expiratory loops.Two loops of differing airway resistances appear.The loop with greater resistance is referred to as "bowed"-that is,the inspiratory portion is more rounded and distends toward the pressure axis.

The Respiratory Care Practitioner Determines That a Patient Has Increased