Ning returned to the institute for her lung mirror test. Physician Fan met her at the reception desk with Qinghe beside him. Yan waited in the public room because the test area was for the patient and the approved clinician.
“Are you ready?” Fan asked.
“I’m ready for the test. I still want the result before I choose treatment.”
“That is your choice.” Fan showed her the clean mirror and the comparison stone. He checked the calibration mark before starting. Qinghe watched from the allowed side of the room.
Fan measured Ning’s breath before and after a short walk across the room. Ning walked at her own pace. When she returned to the chair, the second reading was lower. She took a moment to settle, then asked what the difference meant.
“It shows reduced capacity under exertion,” Fan said. “It does not tell us the cause alone.”
“Can I have both readings?”
“Yes.” He stamped the sheet and gave it to her. “This line is the resting measure; this is after the walk.” He explained the comparison in ordinary language and pointed out where the residue test would appear when it was ready.
