What would be an appropriate test to evaluate suspicion of restrictive lung disease without prior medical history?

To evaluate suspicion of restrictive lung disease without prior medical history, using a bedside flow-volume loop provides valuable insights into lung function. This test is particularly effective because it measures both the inspiratory and expiratory flow rates, helping to assess airway function and volume capacity. In cases of restrictive lung disease, you would typically observe a reduction in the lung volumes, which the flow-volume loop can help identify through its graphical representation.

The flow-volume loop is also advantageous for immediate feedback and interpretation at the bedside, making it a practical choice for evaluating patients in a clinical setting. By observing the characteristics of the flow-volume loop, healthcare providers can discern restrictive patterns that may suggest conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis or other restrictive pathologies. This real-time assessment aligns well with the need for quick and effective evaluation when there's no prior medical history to inform the clinical picture.