The technique of visualizing the inside of the airways for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes is called?

• A. Bronchoscopy
• B. Atelectasis
• C. Bronchitis
• D. Tachypnea

Answer: (A)

Direct visualization of the airways using a scope is bronchoscopy. A bronchoscope, either flexible or rigid, is inserted through the nose or mouth into the trachea and bronchi to inspect the lining, obtain samples, or perform therapeutic maneuvers such as removing obstructions, flushing secretions, or taking biopsies. This makes bronchoscopy a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for evaluating airway and lung conditions.

Atelectasis refers to collapse of part or all of a lung, bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes producing cough and mucus, and tachypnea is an abnormally fast breathing rate. Each is not a procedure for directly viewing the airways.