Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of gas exchange in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen is inhaled into the lungs, diffuses into the bloodstream at the alveoli, and is exchanged for carbon dioxide, which is then exhaled.

Question 2

A patient presents with shortness of breath, confusion, and a pulse oximetry reading of 87%. Which term best describes the lack of oxygen at the organ level?

Accepted Answer

Hypoxia

Question 3

Which of the following is the primary site of gas exchange in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Alveoli

Question 4

A nurse is assessing a patient with suspected COPD. Which of the following findings is most consistent with this diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Permanent enlargement and destruction of alveoli

Question 5

Which of the following oxygen delivery devices is most appropriate for a patient requiring precise oxygen concentration, such as in COPD?

Accepted Answer

Venturi mask

Question 6

A 78-year-old female is admitted with respiratory distress and a pulse oximeter reading of 83% on room air. Which of the following is the most immediate nursing intervention?

Accepted Answer

Administer supplemental oxygen

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the function of surfactant in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse

Question 8

A patient with pneumonia is most likely to present with which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Shortness of breath, cough, confusion, and loss of appetite

Question 9

Which of the following is a common expected respiratory finding in infants (1 month to 1 year)?

Accepted Answer

Abdominal breathing

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between hypoxemia and hypoxia?

Accepted Answer

Hypoxemia refers to low oxygen in the blood, while hypoxia refers to low oxygen in the tissues/organs.

Question 11

Which of the following is a sign of chronic hypoxia seen on physical examination?

Accepted Answer

Clubbing of the fingers

Question 12

A patient with asthma is experiencing an acute exacerbation. Which medication is most appropriate for immediate relief?

Accepted Answer

Short-acting beta-agonist (SABA)

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the purpose of incentive spirometry in respiratory care?

Accepted Answer

Encourages deep breathing to prevent atelectasis

Question 14

Which of the following is a physiologic change in the respiratory system commonly seen in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Decreased cough effort and thickened chest wall

Question 15

A patient is using a non-rebreather mask. Which of the following statements is true about this device?

Accepted Answer

It delivers high concentrations of oxygen and has one-way valves to prevent rebreathing of exhaled air.

Question 16

Which of the following is a key assessment finding in a patient with severe hypoxemia?

Accepted Answer

Altered mental status and tachycardia

Question 17

Which of the following diagnostic tests is most useful for directly measuring the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in arterial blood?

Accepted Answer

Arterial blood gas (ABG)

Question 18

A patient with a history of smoking presents with a barrel-shaped chest and decreased breath sounds. Which respiratory disorder is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Question 19

Which of the following interventions is considered an independent nursing intervention for a patient with impaired gas exchange?

Accepted Answer

Elevating the head of the bed

Question 20

A patient is experiencing dyspnea and orthopnea. Which of the following best describes orthopnea?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty breathing when lying flat

Gas Exchange and Respiratory System: Medical Terminology Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards