Manual of PFT's

Instrument used to measure lung volumes (FRC_pleth) and airway resistance (Raw); consists of an enclosed booth or chamber in which the patients sits to measure changes in lung volume indirectly

Bronchial provocation test; used to assess airway response after a challenge to the airways, particularly useful in measuring response to bronchodilator medications; also known as bronchochallenge

The measurement and/or recording of exhaled carbon dioxide (CO₂)

Measure of the uptake of small volumes of carbon monoxide (CO); referred to as D_LCO or D_CO

Leakage of fluides from blood vessels caused by imbalance in pressures

The maximum volume of gas that can be expired when the patient exhales as forcefully and rapidly as possible after a maximal inspiration

Higher than normal level of carbon dioxide; usually greater than 45 mmHg in arterial blood

Ventilation in excess of CO₂ production resulting in respiratory alkalosis

Inadequate ventilation to remove CO₂ resulting in respiratory acidosis

A curve that shows flow as the patient exhales from maximal inspiration (TLC) to maximal expiration (RV)

The volume of air that can be inspired and expired during a specific interval with rapid, forced breathing

The measurement, either directly or indirectly, of the oxygen saturation of the blood

Estimation of arterial saturation by analysis of light absorption of blood pulsing through a capillary bed (finger or earlobe)

The caloric needs of the body estimated from oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, usually expressed in kilo-calories per 24 hours

The classic pulmonary function test, which measures the volume of air inspired or expired as a function of time.

This test simply measures the largest volume of air that can be moved into or out of the lungs.