CPFT Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Test Prep Guide

The effectiveness of a bronchodilator is commonly assessed by observing changes in FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second) before and after administration. FEV1 is a key spirometric measurement that indicates the amount of air a person can forcefully exhale in one second. A significant improvement in FEV1 following bronchodilator administration demonstrates that the medication has successfully opened up the airways, allowing for better airflow and improved respiratory function.

Monitoring FEV1 provides a direct assessment of bronchial responsiveness and is widely accepted as a reliable indicator of bronchodilator efficacy. This measurement helps clinicians determine the degree of reversible airway obstruction, which is crucial in managing conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By focusing on lung function improvements rather than other parameters, clinicians can draw specific conclusions about the effectiveness of the bronchodilator treatment.

Other options like measuring changes in heart rate, analyzing blood gases, or assessing changes in oxygen levels may provide useful information about a patient's respiratory status, but they do not specifically reflect the direct impact of bronchodilator therapy on airway function. Therefore, they are not primarily used for assessing bronchodilator effectiveness.