Oxygenation & Perfusion: Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing assessment questions, diagnostic tests, nursing diagnoses, and therapeutic breathing techniques related to oxygenation and perfusion.

Dyspnea

Subjective sensation of difficult or labored breathing.

Wheezing

High-pitched, musical breath sound caused by narrowed airways.

Sputum

Mucus and other matter expectorated from the respiratory tract during coughing.

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis

Arterial blood test measuring pH, PO₂, PCO₂, HCO₃⁻, and base excess to assess oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base status.

Normal Arterial pH

7.35–7.45.

PCO₂

Partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood; normal 35–45 mm Hg.

PO₂

Partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood; normal 80–100 mm Hg.

HCO₃⁻

Bicarbonate level in arterial blood; normal 22–26 mEq/L.

Base Excess/Deficit

Calculated value reflecting metabolic component of acid-base balance; normal –2 to +2 mmol/L.

Cardiac Biomarkers

Blood substances (e.g., CK, troponin) released after heart muscle injury, used to diagnose myocardial infarction.

Creatine Kinase (CK)

Enzyme released from damaged tissues, including cardiac muscle; elevated levels signal injury.

Troponin

Cardiac and skeletal muscle protein; rise in blood indicates myocardial damage.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Panel measuring red cells, white cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets to evaluate response to illness.

Cytologic Study (Sputum Cytology)

Microscopic examination of sputum to detect malignant cells, pathogens, blood, or pus.

Allen Test

Assessment of collateral ulnar circulation before radial artery puncture for ABG sampling.

Incentive Spirometer

Device that encourages slow, deep inhalation and sustained inspiration to prevent atelectasis.

Pursed-Lip Breathing

Technique of inhaling through the nose for a count of three, then exhaling slowly through pursed lips for a count of four to improve ventilation.

Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing

Breathing method that engages the diaphragm to slow respirations, conserve energy, and enhance control.

Ineffective Airway Clearance

Inability to clear secretions or obstructions from the airway, often due to fatigue or retained secretions.

Impaired Gas Exchange

Excess or deficit in oxygenation and/or carbon dioxide elimination at the alveolar-capillary membrane.

Ineffective Breathing Pattern

Inspiration and/or expiration that does not provide adequate ventilation (e.g., tachypnea, hyperventilation).

Pulse Oximetry

Noninvasive monitoring of arterial oxygen saturation; expected value >95% in healthy adults.