Compliance Definition — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: A — Change in volume divided by change in pressure during a no-flow condition
The best answer is “Change in volume divided by change in pressure during a no-flow condition”. Compliance is change in volume divided by change in pressure. Static compliance is measured during a no-flow condition, so it reflects elastic properties with minimal contribution from airway resistance. Dynamic compliance is measured during flow and is generally lower when airway resistance is increased. Surfactant increases lung compliance by reducing surface tension.
Reference: Royal College of Anaesthetists, Primary FRCA Syllabus 2021: https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/2026-01/Primary-FRCA-Syllabus.pdf