ATI LPN
NCLEX PN Questions Respiratory System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Regarding pleural effusions
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Normally, 15 mL of serous acellular fluid lubricates pleura (A), maintaining low friction. Choice B is false; most effusions are secondary (e.g., CHF), not primary. Choice C is incorrect; hemorrhagic pleuritis is tumor-related. Choice D is wrong; hemothorax is from trauma/aortic rupture. Choice E (empyema from lung infection) is true. Page 766 (Table 15-14) confirms A's physiology small volume prevents adhesion, distinguishing it over B's primary claim or C's etiology error.
Question 2 of 5
Which system effect of pneumonia should the nurse monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cyanosis (A) is a critical system effect of pneumonia the nurse must monitor, indicating hypoxemia from impaired gas exchange (SpOâ‚‚ <90%). Excess mucus production (B) is a local airway response, not a systemic effect. Shortness of breath (C) is a symptom, not a direct systemic sign, though related to hypoxia. Hemoptysis (D) is less common unless necrotizing (e.g., Klebsiella). Pneumonia's alveolar inflammation and exudate reduce oxygenation, risking cyanosis blue lips/nails signal urgent intervention (e.g., Oâ‚‚ therapy). The document's answer (A) reflects this priority systemic hypoxia trumps B's local effect or D's rarity in standard cases.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse informs a client with pneumonia that a respiratory therapist is scheduled to perform chest physiotherapy. The client asks, 'What does that mean?' Which response by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Chest physiotherapy will help move the liquid out of your lungs' (A) best explains its role percussion/vibration loosen mucus in pneumonia, aiding clearance per ATS guidelines. Breathing improvement (B) is secondary, not precise. Preventing cough (C) is false it promotes productive coughing. Removing organisms (D) is antibiotic-driven. The document's answer (A) reflects pathophysiology consolidated exudate (e.g., 100-200 mL) shifts with CPT, distinguishing it from B's vagueness or D's inaccuracy.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following are parts of the human respiratory system?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The human respiratory system includes the trachea, diaphragm, and lungs, all integral to breathing. The trachea, or windpipe, channels air to the lungs, lined with cilia to filter debris. The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle, contracts to expand the chest, driving inhalation its relaxation aids exhalation. The lungs house alveoli for gas exchange, the system's endpoint. Each part contributes: trachea as conduit, diaphragm as pump, lungs as exchange site. Excluding any would overlook their coordinated role in oxygenating blood and expelling CO2, a holistic view essential for understanding respiration's mechanics and clinical interventions like ventilatory support.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following organs functions as an air conditioner?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Nasal chambers act as an air conditioner, warming, humidifying, and filtering air before it reaches the lungs. Their mucous membranes and turbinates increase surface area, trapping dust and moistening dry air via blood vessel heat, optimizing it for alveolar exchange. The larynx directs air and protects the airway, not conditioning it. The pharynx conducts air but lacks significant conditioning features. 'All' is incorrect nasal chambers alone perform this role. This preconditioning prevents lung irritation, a primary respiratory defense, key in understanding upper airway function and conditions like rhinitis affecting air quality.