The following two graphic loops show which of the following conditions?

A) Leak in the patient-ventilator circuit
B) Increased airway resistance
C) Decreased lung compliance
D) Active exhalation

Question

The following two graphic loops show which of the following conditions?

A) Leak in the patient-ventilator circuit 
B) Increased airway resistance 
C) Decreased lung compliance 
D) Active exhalation

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because the expiratory volume does not return to zero in these graphics,a leak is present in the patient-ventilator circuit.Increased airway resistance would show as a scooped-out expiratory flow on the flow-volume loop,which may not end before the next breath.Decreased lung compliance would show as a "duck bill" on the pressure-volume loop.Active exhalation would make the volume tracing drop below zero.

The Following Two Graphic Loops Show Which of the Following