Terms Associated with Special Tests

• Forced Expiratory Time (FET) — Using the diaphragm of the stethoscope, listen over the trachea and time the audible expiration. Following a deep breath, ask the patient to exhale as quickly as possible. A forced expiration time of 6 or more seconds suggests obstructive pulmonary disease.
  Three consistent readings with a rest in between are most accurate. Use this test to assess the expiratory phase of breathing in a patient suspected of having an obstructive pulmonary disease. 

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