National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the NPTE with our exam quiz. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions to boost your confidence. Learn with detailed explanations and hints for each question. Get ready for success!

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Which two lung volumes make up the functional residual capacity (FRC)?

ERV plus RV
IRV plus TV
Inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) plus expiratory reserve volume (ERV)
Tidal volume (TV) plus residual volume (RV)

The correct answer is: ERV plus RV

Functional residual capacity (FRC) represents the volume of air that remains in the lungs after a normal tidal expiration. It is a crucial component in understanding lung mechanics and gas exchange efficiency. FRC is made up of two specific lung volumes: the expiratory reserve volume (ERV) and the residual volume (RV). Expiratory reserve volume is the amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after a normal expiration, while residual volume is the volume of air that remains in the lungs after a maximal exhalation, ensuring that the lungs do not completely deflate and can continue gas exchange even during pauses in breathing. Hence, when discussing FRC, it is essential to recognize that it is calculated by the sum of ERV and RV, making option A the correct choice. The other options do not accurately represent the components of functional residual capacity. For instance, inspiratory reserve volume and tidal volume pertain to inhalation, while the combination of tidal volume and residual volume does not reflect FRC. Understanding these definitions and the interplay of lung volumes is vital for effective respiratory assessment and treatment strategies in physical therapy.