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Anatomy & Physiology: Respiratory System Fundamentals

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Terms in this set (27)

  • Primary function of the respiratory system
    To supply the body with oxygen and remove carbon dioxide through inhalation and exhalation, enabling gas exchange vital for cellular respiration and pH balance.
  • Three parts of the pharynx
    • Nasopharynx: behind the nose
    • Oropharynx: behind the mouth
    • Laryngopharynx: near the larynx, connects to lower structures
  • Airway pathway through the respiratory system
    Nose/Mouth → Nasopharynx → Oropharynx → Laryngopharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles
  • Difference between bronchi and bronchioles
    Bronchi are larger airways branching from the trachea; bronchioles are smaller branches that continue dividing within the lungs.
  • Function of the epiglottis
    A leaf-shaped cartilage that closes the airway during swallowing to prevent food from entering the lungs.
  • Structure and function of the trachea
    A 12cm long, 2.5cm wide tube held open by C-shaped cartilage, connecting the larynx to the lungs and lined with ciliated mucosa to trap and move particles.
  • Role of the pleura
    Two membranes (visceral and parietal) that produce lubricating pleural fluid allowing lungs to expand and contract smoothly during breathing.
  • Stages of respiration process
    • Pulmonary ventilation: air movement in/out of lungs
    • External respiration: gas exchange in lungs
    • Internal respiration: gas exchange at tissue level
  • Muscles involved in inspiration
    Diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract to enlarge the thoracic cavity, allowing air to enter the lungs.
  • Control center for breathing
    The respiratory center in the medulla oblongata of the brain controls involuntary breathing rhythm.
  • Role of chemoreceptors in respiration
    Sensors in carotid arteries and aorta detect CO2 levels and signal the brain to adjust breathing rate accordingly.
  • Voluntary vs involuntary control of breathing
    Voluntary control is conscious via the cerebral cortex; involuntary control is automatic via the medulla and pons.
  • Lung compliance
    The ease with which lungs and chest expand; healthy lungs have high compliance due to elastic fibers and surfactant.
  • Normal adult respiratory rate
    12 to 20 breaths per minute at rest.
  • Tidal volume
    The amount of air moved in or out of the lungs during a normal breath, approximately 500 mL.
  • Common signs of airway obstruction
    Paradoxical chest and abdominal movements, use of accessory muscles, noisy or absent breath sounds, and late sign of central cyanosis.
  • Look, listen, and feel assessment for airway
    • Look: patient position, trauma, color
    • Listen: breath sounds, abnormal noises
    • Feel: airflow, chest movement, tracheal position
  • Causes of upper airway obstruction
    Tongue blockage (unconsciousness), soft tissue swelling, blood, vomit, and direct injury.
  • Role of alveoli
    Tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs between air and blood.
  • Function of the larynx
    Also called the voice box; contains vocal folds responsible for voice production and protects airway during swallowing.
  • Why carry a placement notebook?
    To record unfamiliar medical terms, their meanings, and research topics for later study and professional communication.
  • Effect of CO2 buildup on breathing
    CO2 buildup is detected by chemoreceptors, signaling the brain to increase breathing rate and depth to expel excess CO2.
  • Pleural cavity and pleural fluid
    The space between visceral and parietal pleura filled with lubricating fluid to reduce friction during lung movement.
  • Signs of respiratory distress to observe
    Sweating, central cyanosis, use of accessory muscles, abdominal breathing, and abnormal breath sounds.
  • Normal oxygen saturation range
    Greater than 96% to 100% on room air for healthy adults.
  • Respiratory rate ranges for children
    • Less than 1 year: 30-60 bpm
    • 1-3 years: 24-40 bpm
    • 3-6 years: 22-34 bpm
    • 6-12 years: 18-30 bpm
    • 12-18 years: 12-24 bpm
  • Why is maintaining a clear airway essential?
    To ensure effective breathing and oxygen delivery; failure can cause brain injury or death.