Question

In which grade of COPD is the forced expiratory volume (FEV) less than 30%?

a. I
b. II
c. III
d. IV

Answer 1

In COPD, stage IV is characterized by a forced expiratory volume (FEV1) less than 30% of the predicted value, denoting the most severe stage of the disease.

Step-by-step explanation:

The forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) in relation to the total forced vital capacity (FVC) is a pivotal measure for diagnosing restrictive and obstructive lung diseases, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Spirometry is the technique used to measure these lung volumes.

In the context of COPD, the staging is based on the FEV1 as a percentage of the predicted value for the patient. At stage IV COPD, the most severe stage, FEV1 is less than 30% of the predicted value. Therefore, the correct answer is d. IV.