All of the following provide chemoreceptor input to the respiratory centers of the medulla oblongata except the

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: olfactory epithelium. The olfactory epithelium is responsible for detecting smells, not providing chemoreceptor input to the respiratory centers in the medulla oblongata. Medullary chemoreceptors, aortic body, and carotid body are all involved in sensing oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels in the blood, providing crucial input to regulate breathing. The olfactory epithelium is not directly involved in respiratory regulation, making it the exception in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Total lung capacity. This term refers to the maximum volume of air the lungs can hold after a full forced inhalation. It is the sum of vital capacity and residual volume. Vital capacity (A) is the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation, not the maximum volume of air contained in the lungs. Tidal volume (B) is the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing, not the maximum volume. Inspiratory capacity (D) is the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation, not the maximum volume of air contained in the lungs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the trachea is not covered by the epiglottis; it is a flap of cartilage that covers the larynx during swallowing, not the trachea. A is correct as the trachea is supported by C-shaped rings of cartilage. C is correct as the trachea branches into the right and left bronchi. D is incorrect as B is false about the trachea.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient's oxygen saturation first. In a patient with bacterial pneumonia showing signs of restlessness, confusion, and agitation along with elevated vital signs, the priority is to assess oxygen saturation to rule out hypoxemia. Hypoxemia can lead to cognitive changes and increased agitation in older adults. Administering a sedative (choice C) or an analgesic (choice D) without addressing the underlying hypoxemia can worsen the patient's condition. Auscultating the lungs (choice A) is important but should come after assessing oxygen saturation to prioritize immediate interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Carbonic anhydrase is crucial for acid-base balance by catalyzing the interconversion of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate ions in the blood. The kidneys regulate blood pH by reabsorbing bicarbonate and excreting hydrogen ions. Therefore, carbonic anhydrase in the kidneys plays a vital role in maintaining acid-base balance. The liver is not directly involved in this process but helps in detoxification and metabolism. The heart and pancreas do not have a primary role in acid-base balance regulation. Thus, the correct answer is B: Kidneys.