Chapter 5: Respiratory Function

These flashcards cover the vocabulary terms and definitions related to respiratory function and associated pathologies.

Epiglottis

A flap of cartilage that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent aspiration.

V/Q ratio

The ventilation/perfusion ratio, normally 0.8 in healthy lungs, indicating a balanced relation between air reaching the alveoli and blood flow in the pulmonary capillaries.

Tidal Volume

The amount of air moved in and out with a normal breath, approximately 500ml.

Minute Respiratory Volume

The total amount of air moved in and out of the lungs in one minute, roughly about 6L.

Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)

The volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled in one second; used in pulmonary function tests.

Pneumothorax

A condition where air enters the pleural cavity, causing partial or complete lung collapse.

Pleural Effusion

Excess fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, which can lead to atelectasis.

Surfactant

A substance composed of lipids and proteins that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing lung collapse.

Asthma

A chronic condition characterized by reversible airway obstruction due to airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A group of progressive lung diseases resulting in persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation.

Anemia's effect on oxygen saturation

Anemic patients may have 100% oxygen saturation on a pulse oximeter despite low hemoglobin levels.

Inspiration

The process of inhaling air into the lungs, primarily driven by the contraction of the diaphragm.

Expiration

The act of exhaling air from the lungs, generally a passive process unless forced.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, surrounded by capillaries.

Lung Compliance

A measure of the lung's ability to stretch and expand, low compliance indicates stiff lungs.

Croup

A viral infection in children characterized by inflammation of the larynx and a distinctive