CPFT Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Test Prep Guide

The necessary baseline measurement before performing a pulmonary function test is predicted values based on height, age, and sex. This is crucial because these values serve as a reference point for interpreting the test results. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) assess lung volumes, capacities, and flow rates, which can vary significantly based on these demographic factors.

The predicted values are derived from normative data that account for variations in lung function across different demographics. For instance, a taller individual generally has larger lung capacities compared to someone shorter. Similarly, age influences lung function, with older individuals often experiencing a decline in lung capacity. Sex also plays a role, as males typically have larger lung volumes than females. By comparing the patient's test results to these predicted values, healthcare providers can determine if the patient's lung function falls within a normal range or indicates the presence of a respiratory condition.

In the context of pulmonary function testing, while patient history and other factors, such as weight and smoking history, may be informative, they do not provide the necessary reference data required to interpret the results accurately. Understanding a patient's complete medical history can be beneficial, but it is the predicted values that form the cornerstone for evaluating lung function.