You are examining the expiratory flow tracing during the patient's forced vital capacity (FVC) maneuver. At what point during the exhalation can you generally begin to see flow from the bronchioles?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Generally, flow from the bronchioles becomes visible beyond 50% of the FVC maneuver. This is because the larger airways (trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles) empty first before the smaller ones (respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli) begin to contribute to the exhalation.

You Are Examining the Expiratory Flow Tracing During the Patient's