Question 1

A patient presents with a collapsed lung after a stab wound to the chest. Which pressure relationship is most directly responsible for the lung collapse?

Accepted Answer

Intrapleural pressure (P_{ip}) becomes equal to intrapulmonary pressure (P_{pul})

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the function of Type II alveolar cells?

Accepted Answer

They produce surfactant to reduce alveolar surface tension

Question 3

A premature infant is experiencing difficulty breathing due to alveolar collapse after each breath. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Lack of surfactant production

Question 4

Which equation correctly represents Boyle’s Law as it applies to pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1V_1 = P_2V_2$$

Question 5

During an asthma attack, which of the following is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Bronchioles constrict, increasing airway resistance

Question 6

Which structure is responsible for closing off the larynx during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 7

A patient with pneumonia has thickened respiratory membranes. What effect does this have on gas exchange?

Accepted Answer

It decreases the rate of diffusion of gases

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the role of hemoglobin in oxygen transport?

Accepted Answer

It binds oxygen reversibly, allowing loading and unloading depending on local conditions

Question 9

Which of the following is a direct result of hyperventilation?

Accepted Answer

Decreased arterial $$PCO_2 ($$hypocapnia)

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a function of the nasal cavity?

Accepted Answer

Initiating the cough reflex

Question 11

A patient with left-sided heart failure develops pulmonary edema. How does this affect the respiratory membrane?

Accepted Answer

It increases the thickness of the respiratory membrane

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why the right main bronchus is more likely to receive an aspirated object than the left?

Accepted Answer

The right main bronchus is wider, shorter, and more vertical

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct formula for transpulmonary pressure?

Accepted Answer

$$P_{pul} - P_{ip}$$

Question 14

Which of the following would most likely decrease lung compliance?

Accepted Answer

Fibrosis due to chronic inflammation

Question 15

Which region of the pharynx serves only as an airway and is closed off during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Nasopharynx

Question 16

A patient is exposed to carbon monoxide. Why is this dangerous in terms of oxygen transport?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin has a much higher affinity for carbon monoxide than oxygen

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic stimulation on the bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation

Question 18

Which of the following is a primary function of the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Gas exchange between the atmosphere and blood

Question 19

Which of the following is true regarding ventilation-perfusion coupling in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Alveolar $$PO_2$$ controls arteriolar diameter

Question 20

Which of the following is the best definition of tidal volume (TV)?

Accepted Answer

The amount of air moved into and out of the lungs with each breath

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Implications

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards