Pulmonary Diagnostic Testing Exam Questions (180 Q&A) – RESP 202, ABG Analysis, PFT, Bronchoscopy – Kettering

This document contains a comprehensive set of approximately 180 exam-style questions and answers focused on pulmonary diagnostic testing in respiratory care. It covers essential topics such as arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, including sampling sites, electrode functions (Clark, Severinghaus, Sanz), and interpretation errors caused by air bubbles or improper handling. It also provides detailed explanations of oxygenation and ventilation indices such as the A-a gradient, P/F ratio, oxygen index, and dead space to tidal volume ratio, all of which are critical for assessing gas exchange and identifying conditions like ARDS, shunting, and V/Q mismatch. The document further explores pulmonary function testing (PFT), including spirometry, flow-volume loops, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1), and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV). It explains how to differentiate obstructive and restrictive lung diseases using measurable parameters and outlines key diagnostic tools such as peak flowmeters, pneumotachometers, and body plethysmography. As shown on page 1, the material begins with foundational ABG sampling concepts, while later sections (pages 10–13) expand into advanced pulmonary function testing and interpretation techniques. In addition, the document includes important clinical procedures such as bronchoscopy, detailing indications, equipment, complications, and pharmacologic preparation (e.g., lidocaine, benzocaine, sedatives). It also covers oxygen transport concepts, cardiac output measurement using the Fick equation, and diffusion capacity (DLCO), linking physiological theory with clinical application. The content reflects standard respiratory care principles as presented in Egan’s Fundamentals of Respiratory Care, making it highly relevant for both academic and clinical learning. This resource is ideal for students enrolled in courses such as RESP 202 (Pulmonary Diagnostics), Cardiopulmonary Physiology, Mechanical Ventilation, and Advanced Respiratory Care. It is also highly suitable for respiratory therapy students, nursing students in critical care or pulmonary specialties, paramedic trainees, and healthcare professionals preparing for certification exams such as the NBRC (CRT/RRT). Keywords: pulmonary diagnostic testing, ABG analysis, pulmonary function test, spirometry, bronchoscopy, oxygenation index, A-a gradient, P/F ratio, ventilation, respiratory care, DLCO, flow volume loop, obstructive lung disease, restrictive lung disease, respiratory diagnostics