Fundamentals of Respiratory Care

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to pulmonary rehabilitation and respiratory care, helping to reinforce understanding and prepare for exams.

Rehabilitation

Restoration of individuals to the fullest possible medical, mental, emotional, social, and vocational potential.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe.

Respiratory Quotient (RQ)

Indicates fuel utilization; the ratio of CO2 produced to O2 consumed.

VO2 max

The maximum rate of oxygen consumption measured during incremental exercise.

Anaerobic Threshold

The point during exercise at which the body transitions from aerobic energy production to anaerobic energy production.

Dyspnea

Difficulty or discomfort in breathing; often assessed in patients with respiratory conditions.

Reconditioning

A program aimed at enhancing physical condition and increasing exercise tolerance, especially in patients with COPD.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

A comprehensive program that helps patients with chronic respiratory diseases improve their health and quality of life.

6-minute walk test (6MWT)

A commonly used test to assess the functional exercise capacity of patients.

Medical Research Council Dyspnea Index (MRCDI)

A scale that evaluates dyspnea on exertion, ranging from 1 (dyspnea with vigorous effort) to 4 (dyspnea with mild activities).