North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is the residual volume in an average male adult?

1. 600 mL

2. 1200 mL

3. 1500 mL

4. 300 mL

The correct answer is: 1200 mL

The residual volume in an average male adult is approximately 1,200 mL. Residual volume refers to the amount of air that remains in the lungs after a maximal exhalation. This volume is important because it helps maintain alveolar inflation and prevents lung collapse, ensuring that gas exchange can continue even between breaths. Factors such as lung size and overall respiratory health can influence residual volume, but the typical value for healthy adult males is around this range. Understanding residual volume is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in emergency situations where oxygenation and ventilation status must be quickly assessed. Knowing the standard values helps in the assessment of various conditions that may affect lung function, such as obstructive lung disease or paralysis of respiratory muscles. This knowledge is also fundamental for interpreting pulmonary function tests.