ATI RN
Questions on the Respiratory System Questions
Question 1 of 5
The Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium lining the trachea is composed of
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Goblet cells. Goblet cells are responsible for secreting mucus in the respiratory tract, aiding in trapping and removing foreign particles. This is crucial for protecting the lungs from debris and pathogens. Macrophages are immune cells that engulf and digest pathogens, not a component of the epithelium. Fibroblasts are connective tissue cells, not part of the epithelial lining. Therefore, the correct answer is A.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is having her tonsils removed. The patient asks the nurse what function the tonsils normally serve. Which of the following would be the most accurate response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The tonsils help to guard the body from invasion of organisms. Tonsils are part of the immune system and act as the body's first line of defense against bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth and nose. They help to trap and kill these pathogens, preventing them from causing infections in the body. This function is essential for overall immune response and protection against illnesses. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: The tonsils do not separate the windpipe from the throat. That function is performed by the epiglottis. C: Tonsils do not make enzymes for digestion. Enzymes for digestion are mainly produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. D: Tonsils do not regulate airflow into the lungs. The epiglottis and other structures in the respiratory system are responsible for regulating airflow.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is scheduled to have excess pleural fluid aspirated with a needle in order to relieve her dyspnea. The patient inquires about the normal function of pleural fluid. What should the nurse describe?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: It lubricates the movement of the thorax and lungs. Pleural fluid acts as a lubricant between the layers of the pleura, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement during respiration. This function is crucial for the efficient expansion and contraction of the lungs during breathing. Explanation: 1. A (It allows for full expansion of the lungs within the thoracic cavity): While pleural fluid does contribute to lung expansion, its main role is not to solely allow for full expansion. 2. B (It prevents the lungs from collapsing within the thoracic cavity): This is incorrect as the pleural pressure, rather than the pleural fluid, prevents lung collapse. 3. C (It limits lung expansion within the thoracic cavity): This is incorrect as pleural fluid actually facilitates lung expansion by reducing friction.
Question 4 of 5
Which form of epithelial tissue may be found in the upper respiratory system (URS)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: The upper respiratory system requires protection and mucus secretion. Step 2: Pseudostratified epithelium provides protection and has cilia for moving mucus. Step 3: Ciliated columnar cells help sweep mucus and debris out of the respiratory tract. Step 4: Therefore, pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium is the correct choice. Summary: B: Moist cuboidal epithelium lacks cilia and isn't specialized for mucus clearance. C: Simple squamous epithelium is too thin and fragile for protection. D: Stratified squamous epithelium is more suited for areas with high mechanical stress.
Question 5 of 5
The partial pressure of oxygen in the interstitial space of peripheral tissues is approximately
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 40 mm Hg. In peripheral tissues, oxygen is delivered by the blood through capillaries. The partial pressure of oxygen in the interstitial space of peripheral tissues is lower than in the blood, around 40 mm Hg. This allows for the diffusion of oxygen from capillaries to cells. Choice B (45 mm Hg) and C (50 mm Hg) are slightly higher pressures and would not promote efficient oxygen diffusion. Choice D (70 mm Hg) is closer to arterial blood oxygen levels and would not allow sufficient oxygen release to tissues. Thus, the correct answer is A as it reflects the physiological conditions necessary for effective oxygen delivery to cells.