ATI RN
Respiratory System Questions and Answers PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
The inspiratory capacity is a total of what two pulmonary volumes?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The inspiratory capacity is the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation. It is the sum of tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume. Tidal volume is the volume of air inhaled and exhaled during normal breathing, while inspiratory reserve volume is the additional air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B: Vital capacity is the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation. It does not include tidal volume, so this choice is incorrect. C: Vital capacity includes inspiratory reserve volume, not tidal volume, so this choice is incorrect. D: Residual volume is the volume of air remaining in the lungs after maximal exhalation, not part of inspiratory capacity. Tidal volume is the only correct component in this choice.
Question 2 of 5
which one of the following statements is false about the trachea?
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.
Question 3 of 5
The 79-year-old patient with bacterial pneumonia becomes increasingly restless, confused, and agitated. The patient’s temperature is 100° F, and his pulse, blood pressure, and respirations are elevated since the last assessment 6 hours ago. What action should the nurse take first?
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.
Question 4 of 5
In which organ is carbonic anhydrase crucial for maintaining acid-base balance?
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.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following serum lab values is a risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: LDL 150 mg/dL. LDL cholesterol is known as "bad" cholesterol, and high levels are a risk factor for atherosclerosis. LDL can build up in the arteries, leading to plaque formation and narrowing of blood vessels. Elevated LDL levels increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Summary: B: Triglycerides 140 mg/dL - Elevated triglycerides are a risk factor for heart disease, but not as directly linked to atherosclerosis as LDL. C: Cholesterol 190 mg/dL - Total cholesterol includes both HDL and LDL, so this value alone does not specify the risk factor for atherosclerosis. D: HDL 100mg/dL - High levels of HDL are actually considered beneficial as it is known as "good" cholesterol and helps to remove LDL from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.