Respiratory System Lecture Review

Flashcards covering key concepts, anatomy, physiology, and clinical considerations of the respiratory system, based on the provided lecture notes. Topics include lung anatomy, breathing mechanics, age-related variations, common conditions, and assessment questions.

What are the primary functions of the respiratory system?

To breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.

What percentage of ambient air is oxygen?

21%.

What is the main purpose of the rib cage in relation to the respiratory system?

To protect the lungs and heart.

How is the first rib identified during an assessment?

It is the rib located directly below the clavicle.

What term describes the space between the ribs?

Intercostal space (ICS).

What is the major muscle that drives breathing, located underneath the rib cage?

The diaphragm.

What muscles between the ribs assist breathing, especially during respiratory distress?

Intercostal muscles.

How many lobes does the right lung have, and how many does the left lung have?

The right lung has three lobes, and the left lung has two lobes.

Why does the left lung have fewer lobes than the right lung?

To accommodate the heart, which sits centrally but extends to the left.

Which parts of the brain are responsible for controlling respiration?

The medulla and pons.

What is the primary respiratory drive for most people?

The body's need to blow off carbon dioxide (CO2).

In individuals with chronic lung diseases like emphysema or COPD, what becomes their primary respiratory drive?

Their need for oxygen.

When listening to lung sounds anteriorly, where should the stethoscope be placed relative to the clavicle and ribs?

Lung sounds can be heard above the clavicle, but typically not below the 6th rib, as lower sounds might be associated with GI.

Posteriorly, what is the lowest thoracic vertebra level to listen for lung sounds?

Not below T10.

Which lung lobe on the right side is easiest to assess from a lateral (side) position?

The right middle lobe.

Describe the typical shape of an infant's thorax.

It is very square.

In utero, what is one of the last major systems to mature?

The lungs (lung maturity).

What is the purpose of 'delayed cord cutting' in newborns?

To provide the baby with a last bit of oxygen from the mother via the umbilical cord before it detaches.

What is the normal respiratory rate for an adult compared to an infant?

Adults typically have a rate of 12-20 breaths per minute; infants can have a rate up to 60 breaths per minute.

Why are infants at higher risk for respiratory compromise when they cannot regulate their body temperature?

Temperature dysregulation puts extra stress on their body, which can lead to respiratory problems.

In infants and children, which body system is often the most problematic when they become seriously ill?

The respiratory system.

How does pregnancy affect the diaphragm and respiratory rate?

The diaphragm lifts up, and the respiratory rate increases, leading to shallower breaths.

What physiological changes during pregnancy contribute to feeling short of breath?

The diaphragm lifts, the body needs more oxygen due to increased blood volume, and the rib cage expands.

What common postural change in older adults can affect their ability to take deep breaths?

Kyphosis (an excessive outward curve of the spine, or hunching).

Besides postural changes, what other age-related factors contribute to respiratory problems in older adults?

Weaker respiratory muscles, including the diaphragm, leading to shallower breaths and increased risk for complications.

What is kyphosis?

An excessive outward curve of the spine, often described as hunching.

What are common reasons people seek healthcare related to their respiratory system?

Shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, and trauma or injury.

When a patient presents with chest pain, why is it initially treated as a cardiac issue?

Cardiac problems are often more immediately detrimental, so they are ruled out first.

What questions should be asked to assess a patient's cough?

Is it productive? If so, what does the sputum look like (color, consistency, blood)? How much is coughed up? When did it start? How does their throat feel?

What respiratory illnesses are important to ask about in a patient's history?

Tuberculosis, pneumonia, asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis (CF), emphysema, lung/esophageal cancers, and trauma like broken ribs or collapsed lung.

Why is it important to ask about cardiovascular diagnoses when assessing the respiratory system?

The heart and lungs are closely connected, and a cardiac problem can easily lead to a respiratory problem.

Which respiratory condition is entirely genetic and important to ask about in family history?

Cystic fibrosis (CF).

When assessing current health status, what does asking 'How many pillows do you use for sleeping?' aim to determine?

Whether the individual props themselves up to alleviate difficulty breathing when lying flat.

What does the term 'pack years' refer to in smoking history?

A calculation used to objectively determine the amount of damage done to the lungs from smoking, based on packs per day multiplied by years smoked.

What is sleep apnea?

A condition where an individual's tongue falls back during sleep, obstructing the trachea and reducing oxygen intake.

How might a person or their partner recognize sleep apnea?

The partner might notice loud snoring or jolting awake, and the person may not feel rested despite adequate sleep.

What does an implantable tongue stimulator (like Inspire) help with in sleep apnea?

It recognizes when the tongue falls back and stimulates it to move forward, preventing obstruction.

What are night sweats a potential sign of regarding respiratory health?

Hormonal issues or tuberculosis.