A patient comes to the clinic complaining of a non-productive cough that occurs with exercise. The advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) assesses the patient and finds no other symptoms. The patient states there is no history of tobacco use, no known allergies, and no routine medications are being taken. Spirometry results indicate intermittent asthma. Which FEV₁ did the APRN receive for this patient?

An FEV1 in this range would indicate significant obstructive lung disease, which is not consistent with intermittent asthma. Patients with such low values typically present with more severe symptoms and are likely to have a history of chronic respiratory issues, making this option incorrect.

FEV1 values below 60% predicted suggest severe airway obstruction, which is not characteristic of intermittent asthma. Patients with this level of lung function usually experience more pronounced respiratory distress and would likely have a history of chronic lung conditions, making this option inappropriate.

While this range indicates some degree of impairment, it does not align with intermittent asthma, where patients typically maintain FEV1 values greater than 80% predicted during spirometry. This choice would imply a more chronic condition or exacerbation, which is not evident in this patient’s presentation.