The respiratory therapist is performing a pulmonary function study on a patient who has periodic symptoms of asthma. The pulmonary function results are within normal limits. What further testing can the therapist recommend to aid in either confirming or negating the possible diagnosis?
A) Inhaled methacholine challenge testing
B) Body plethysmography
C) Inhaled digitalis
D) Warm, humid air challenge

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inhaled methacholine challenge testing is used to diagnose asthma, especially when symptoms are intermittent and baseline pulmonary function tests are normal. Methacholine is a known bronchoconstrictor, and if the patient's airways are hyperresponsive, as in asthma, this test will cause narrowing of the airways and confirm the diagnosis.

The Respiratory Therapist Is Performing a Pulmonary Function Study on a Patient