Which term describes the total movement of lung expansion and contraction?

The term that describes the total movement of lung expansion and contraction is referred to as "excursion." This term specifically denotes the distance the chest wall moves during breathing, including the expansion (inhalation) and contraction (exhalation) phases. Excursion is a critical component in understanding respiratory mechanics as it encompasses the full cycle of lung capacity changes during respiration.

Understanding this term is vital in neonatal nursing practice as it relates directly to how effectively a newborn is breathing and whether they are receiving sufficient oxygenation. While terms like "ventilation" refer to the exchange of air between the environment and the lungs, "excursion" focuses explicitly on the physical movement of the lungs and chest wall during that process. Similarly, "breath cycle" captures the concept of one full inhalation and exhalation, but does not specifically indicate the distance moved; whereas "inhalation" refers only to the intake of air without considering the entire movement cycle.