Respiratory System Function Review

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering respiratory system function, diagnostic and therapeutic measures for various conditions, nursing care, and key concepts related to respiratory health.

What is the normal pH range for acid-base homeostasis?

7.35-7.45

What causes respiratory acidosis?

Hypoventilation.

What causes respiratory alkalosis?

Hyperventilation.

What are two adventitious breath sounds?

Crackles and wheezes.

What is stridor?

A high-pitched sound during breathing, often indicating an obstruction.

What is the purpose of a D-dimer test in respiratory evaluation?

To assess for blood clots.

What diagnostic test uses a noninvasive method to measure oxygen saturation?

Pulse oximetry.

What position maximizes lung expansion?

Fowler's position.

What are the indications for using a thoracentesis?

To remove fluid from the pleural space.

What should you monitor after performing bronchoscopies?

The return of the gag reflex before providing food or fluids.

What does a chest drain system require to function properly?

It must always be below the level of the chest.

What is a tracheostomy?

A tube inserted into the trachea to maintain airway patency.

What is the risk associated with long-term mechanical ventilation?

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

What nursing measures should be taken for a patient with pneumonia?

Administer IV antibiotics and monitor vital signs.

What might indicate a patient has pneumonia upon auscultation?

Crackles or abnormal lung sounds.

What is the common cause of the common cold?

Viral rhinitis.

What is pharyngitis?

Inflammation of the pharynx.

What are signs of influenza?

Fever, chills, myalgia, sore throat, cough.

What is a key preventative measure against influenza?

Yearly vaccination.

What is a complication of untreated obstructive sleep apnea?

Heart disease.

What diagnostic test is used to evaluate sleep apnea?

Nocturnal polysomnography.

What nursing intervention is necessary for a patient after septoplasty?

Maintain semi-Fowler's position.

Who is at greatest risk for complications from influenza?

Elderly patients.

What are common symptoms of tuberculosis?

Coughing, weight loss, and night sweats.

What testing method is used for Tuberculosis diagnosis?

Purified protein derivative skin test.

What factor can activate dormant TB infections?

Impaired immunity.

What is the typical treatment duration for latent TB infection?

6 to 24 months.

What substances are linked to lung cancer risk?

Smoking and exposure to asbestos.

What is a common etiological factor for pneumonia?

Bacterial infection, usually streptococcus.

What should be included in the management of COPD?

Smoking cessation and oxygen therapy.

What is emphysema characterized by?

Destruction of alveolar walls.

What is a complication of COPD?

Cor pulmonale.

How might a patient with asthma present during an attack?

Dyspnea and expiratory wheezing.

What creates a risk for pulmonary embolism?

Deep vein thrombosis.

What indicates a pneumothorax?

Absent breath sounds over the affected area.

What is the primary concern during acute respiratory failure?

Maintaining oxygen levels.

What position should a patient with a pulmonary embolism be placed?

High Fowler's position.

What is a common sign and symptom of pneumonia in the elderly?

Confusion and lethargy.

When should a nurse check the induration in a PPD test?

48-72 hours after administration.

How can asthmatic attacks be prevented?

Avoiding known triggers.

What is the expected outcome for a patient with chronic bronchitis?

Treated through bronchodilators and lifestyle modifications.

What is the effect of corticosteroids on asthma?

They reduce airway inflammation.

What intervention should be initiated for a patient with an oxygen saturation of 87%?

Start oxygen therapy per facility policy.

What signs might indicate status asthmaticus?

Cyanosis, tachycardia, and altered mental status.

What dietary advice should be given to a patient with COPD?

High-calorie, high-protein diet is recommended.

What should be monitored with the use of bronchodilators?

Heart rate and respiratory status.

What is the treatment for an acute exacerbation of COPD?

Oxygen therapy and bronchodilators.

What is the most effective way to prevent the spread of TB?

Isolation of active TB patients.

What indicates the need for anticoagulation therapy?

History of venous thromboembolism.

What medical condition is characterized by decreased vital capacity and increased residual volume?

COPD.

What is a primary symptom of pneumonia?

Cough with purulent or blood-tinged sputum.

What preventive measures are important post-surgery for obstructive sleep apnea patients?

Avoiding sedatives and monitoring vital signs.

How does one test for oxygen saturation non-invasively?

Using a pulse oximeter.

What symptoms separate pneumonia from other respiratory conditions in the elderly?

Confusion and change in mental status.

What is the role of chest physiotherapy in respiratory care?

To promote clearance of secretions.

What is the priority assessment for a patient with suspected pneumonia?

Lung auscultation.

How does mechanical ventilation assist patients?

It supports or replaces spontaneous breathing.

What should a nurse do if a patient is experiencing a panic attack with dyspnea?

Provide reassurance and focus on breathing.

What approach should be taken for a patient with a suspected pulmonary embolism?

Rapid assessment and initiation of oxygen therapy.

What adverse effect should be monitored with prolonged corticosteroid use?

Hyperglycemia and infection risk.

What is a common side effect of bronchodilators?

Tachycardia.

What is the treatment for an asthma attack?

Administer short-acting beta-agonists.

Which patients are particularly vulnerable during influenza season?

Those with chronic respiratory conditions.

What should be provided to patients with allergic rhinitis?

Education on avoiding allergens.

What is a crucial component of care for patients with lung cancer?

Pain management and supportive care.

What sign might suggest significant respiratory compromise?

Use of accessory muscles during breathing.

What is the implication of a sudden decrease in oxygen saturation in hospitalized patients?

Potential respiratory distress or failure.

What lifestyle changes can mitigate COPD symptoms?

Cessation of smoking and regular exercise.

How should a chest tube be maintained?

Ensure it remains below the level of the chest.

What is the rationale for elevating the head of the bed in respiratory patients?

It facilitates easier breathing.

When should nebulization be considered?

For patients experiencing bronchospasm.

What might brown or rust-colored sputum indicate?

Possible presence of blood or infection.

What type of lung cancer is most associated with smoking?

Small cell lung cancer.

What does auscultation reveal in patients with advanced COPD?

Diminished breath sounds.

What significant symptom differentiates obstructive sleep apnea from other conditions?

Episodes of apnea during sleep.

What are common treatments for allergic rhinitis?

Antihistamines and decongestants.

How does a vasoconstrictive agent help with epistaxis?

It reduces blood flow to the nasal area.

What indicates the need for suctioning a tracheostomy patient?

Excessive secretions noted or patient distress.

What is the risk of untreated sleep apnea?

Increased chances of cardiovascular issues.

What nursing actions should be taken before a patient is discharged after TB treatment?

Educate on medication adherence and follow-up.

What indicates a possible pneumonia diagnosis based on sputum analysis?

Presence of inflammatory cells or pathogens.

What should be monitored for patients on TB treatment?

Signs of liver function impairment.

What is a potential complication of tracheostomy?

Infection at the insertion site.

What is a common method of enhancing lung expansion?

Incentive spirometry.

What is the impact of oxygen therapy on patients with COPD?

It can improve oxygenation and decrease workload on the heart.

What should be documented when a patient's oxygen saturation drops suddenly?

The vital signs and any interventions taken.

What condition might be indicated by orthopnea?

Heart failure or severe respiratory compromise.

What aspect of respiratory assessment is critical in older adults?

Identification of atypical presentations.

What type of pneumonia is commonly caused by aspiration?

Aspiration pneumonia.

What is necessary when performing a pulmonary function test?

The patient should be calm and at rest.

What can help manage dyspnea during activities?

Pacing and using supplemental oxygen when needed.

What is the first step when caring for a patient with suspected respiratory distress?

Assess the airway, breathing, and circulation.

What is important to communicate to a patient receiving mechanical ventilation?

That they may not be able to speak while intubated.

What common respiratory condition is associated with persistent cough and sputum production?

Chronic bronchitis.

What treatment modality is utilized for patients with moderate to severe asthma?

Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs).

What is the significance of recognizing wheezing in emergency assessments?

It indicates a narrowing of the airways.

What precaution is necessary when assessing a patient with TB?

Infection control measures must be in place.

How does smoking cessation impact lung health?

It significantly improves lung function over time.

What complication can arise from a tension pneumothorax?

Mediastinal shift and respiratory failure.

What indicates potential oxygen toxicity in patients using high-flow oxygen?

Decreased consciousness or seizures.