Author Question: Which of the following would be associated with the distal airway and alveolar weakening clinical ... (Read 58 times)

erika · **on:** Jul 16, 2018

Which of the following would be associated with the distal airway and alveolar weakening clinical scenario?

1. Depressed diaphragm on chest radiograph
2. Use of accessory muscles of inspiration
3. Rhonchi and wheezing
4. Increased PEFR
a. 1, 2
b. 1, 3
c. 1, 2, 3
d. 1, 3, 4

Question 2

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

pratush dev · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 16, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
When distal airway and alveolar weakening is present, air trapping occurs, resulting in the depressed diaphragm on the chest radiograph and use of accessory muscles of inspiration.

Answer to Question 2

A
Because some patients have clinical manifestations associated with asthma but normal lung function, measurements of airway responsiveness to inhaled methacholine or a cold air challenge may be useful in confirming a diagnosis of asthma. A warm, humid air challenge would not be effective in producing results consistent with airway reactiveness. Body plethysmography is used to determine functional residual capacity. This would not be helpful in establishing a diagnosis of asthma.