What do pulmonary function tests (PFTs) evaluate?

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are specifically designed to assess how well the lungs are functioning. They measure various parameters related to lung capacity and airflow, which help in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions. These tests can evaluate how much air the lungs can hold (lung volume), how quickly air can be exhaled (forced expiratory volume), and how efficiently the lungs transfer oxygen into the blood. Such assessments are crucial for diagnosing conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other pulmonary disorders.

The other options focus on cardiovascular health or blood analysis rather than respiratory function. Blood pressure levels pertain to the circulatory system, heart rate variability is a measure of heart performance, and the chemical composition of blood involves assessing gases and metabolites in bloodstream rather than lung performance. Thus, the focus on lung function and capacity accurately reflects the purpose of PFTs.