Identify the reference
A chamber or sensor measures respiratory volume or flow. Modern systems usually use a mouthpiece and flow sensor. The reference shows a historical volume-measuring instrument with an outlet port
MEDIVEERSETHE PRACTICAL HUBLOOK CLOSELY / UNDERSTAND CLEARLY
Spirometer
Recognise the device and interpret respiratory observations in clinical context.
REFERENCE GALLERY1 / 1 reference
1
Measuring chamber
Measuring chamber: located on the reference instrument. Compare its shape and position with the apparatus used in your practical.
Zoom in, then drag to inspect. Keyboard: + / − to zoom, arrows to pan, 0 to reset. Tap the numbered markers to explore parts.
Spirometer — reference view
Image: Raimond Spekking · Source / original · CC BY-SA 4.0Resized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.
Identify and explain
Volume is measured directly or calculated by integrating airflow over time; accurate technique and quality control are essential.
- A chamber or sensor measures respiratory volume or flow
- Modern systems usually use a mouthpiece and flow sensor
- The reference shows a historical volume-measuring instrument with an outlet port
Explain the measurement
Volume is measured directly or calculated by integrating airflow over time; accurate technique and quality control are essential.
Interpret in context
Check technique, measurement limitations and the patient’s clinical state; a single value is not a diagnosis.
At the viva table
Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.
01 / What is FEV₁?
The volume expired in the first second of a forced expiratory manoeuvre.
02 / What is FVC?
The volume forcibly exhaled after a maximal inspiration under the specified spirometry manoeuvre.
03 / Can spirometry directly measure residual volume?
No. Other lung-volume methods are needed.
04 / Why are repeatable attempts important?
They help assess effort, technique and reliability of the measurement.