ATI RN
Respiratory System NCLEX Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which statement is NOT true?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Oxygen is primarily carried by hemoglobin in red blood cells, not blood plasma. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen, forming oxyhemoglobin for transport. Option A is false because oxygen is more soluble in fluid than carbon dioxide. Option B is incorrect as oxygen diffuses slower than carbon dioxide due to its larger molecular size. Option C is true as the diaphragm is the main muscle involved in breathing, contracting to expand the lungs during inhalation.
Question 2 of 5
During inspiration, air passes into lungs due to
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A - Increase in volume of thoracic cavity and fall in lung pressure Rationale: 1. During inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. 2. The external intercostal muscles also contract, lifting the ribcage and further expanding the thoracic cavity. 3. As thoracic cavity volume increases, lung pressure decreases, creating a pressure gradient that allows air to flow into the lungs. Summary: B: Fall in pressure inside the lungs - This is a consequence of the increase in thoracic cavity volume, not the cause of air entering the lungs. C: Increased volume of thoracic cavity - This is correct but does not explain how air enters the lungs. D: Muscular expansion of lungs - Lungs do not expand on their own; it is the thoracic cavity that expands to create the pressure gradient for air entry.
Question 3 of 5
The impulse for voluntary muscles for forced breathing starts in
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Medulla (pons). The medulla, located in the brainstem, controls involuntary functions like breathing. Specifically, the medulla contains the respiratory center, which regulates breathing rhythm and depth. During forced breathing, the medulla sends impulses to the voluntary muscles involved in breathing, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. The pons, which is closely connected to the medulla, assists in regulating breathing patterns. The vagus nerve (B) is responsible for parasympathetic functions, not voluntary breathing. The cerebral hemispheres (C) are primarily involved in higher brain functions, not breathing regulation. The spinal cord (D) plays a role in transmitting signals between the brain and muscles but does not initiate voluntary breathing impulses.
Question 4 of 5
A client is scheduled to have a tracheostomy placed in an hour. What action by the nurse is the priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensure that informed consent is on the chart. This is the priority action because obtaining informed consent is essential before any procedure to ensure that the client understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives. Administering anxiolytic medication (A) may be necessary but is not the priority. Reinforcing teaching (C) and starting antibiotics (D) are important but not as urgent as ensuring informed consent.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse cares for a client who has packing inserted for posterior nasal bleeding. What action would the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assess the client's airway. This is the priority action as airway patency is always the top priority in any emergency situation. In this case, posterior nasal bleeding can lead to blood flow into the throat, potentially obstructing the airway. Ensuring the client's airway is clear and maintaining adequate oxygenation is crucial for their safety. Choice A (Assess the client's pain level) is not the priority when there is a potential risk to the airway. Choice B (Keep the client's head elevated) may be done after confirming airway patency. Choice C (Teach the client about the causes of nasal bleeding) is important but not the immediate priority in this situation.