Respiratory System

Midsternal line

Down the center of the sternum

Midclavicular line

Vertical line from middle of clavicle over nipple to lower ribs

Anterior, midaxillary, posterior axillary lines

From axilla to lower ribcage

Right lung

Has three lobes, superior, middle, inferior

Left lung

2 lobes, superior, inferior

Oropharynx structures

Uvula, tonsils, adenoids, epiglottis, glottis

Expected chest shape

Symmetrical, slightly downwards, chest is wider than deep

Barrel chest

Unexpected, hyperinflation of lungs due to COPD, equal width and depth

Funnel chest

Pectus Excavatum, sunken sternum, shouldn’t cause respiratory distress

Pigeon chest

Pectus Carinatum, protrusion of sternum, shouldn’t cause respiratory distress

Ataxic breathing

Irregular frequency, various depths, periods of apnea

Incentive spirometer use

4-10 times per hour, inhale slowly, encourages opening of lungs

COPD findings

Dyspnea, productive cough, use of accessory muscles, decreased SpO2%

Nursing actions

O2 therapy, sit upright or tripod position