ATI TEAS 6: Respiratory System Flashcards

Respiratory System Overview

• Primary function: facilitate gas exchange between the body and the external environment, supplying oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.
• Key components: nasal cavity, pharynx, epiglottis, larynx, trachea, lungs, bronchioles, bronchi, diaphragm, alveoli.

Interaction with Cardiovascular System

• Oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream from the lungs, enabling cellular metabolism.
• Carbon dioxide, a byproduct of metabolism, is transported back to the lungs for exhalation.

Pharynx and Epiglottis

• Pharynx: passage for air, located at the junction of the trachea and esophagus; sensitive to food, triggering swallowing.
• Epiglottis: flap of cartilage preventing entry of food and liquids into the respiratory tract during swallowing.

Larynx and Trachea

• Larynx: also known as the voice box; directs air into the trachea.
• Trachea: tube carrying air from mouth/nasal cavities to lungs; splits into bronchi.

Bronchi and Bronchioles

• Bronchi: two main air passageways to the lungs, branching into smaller bronchioles.
• Bronchioles: even smaller tubes that terminate at the alveoli, facilitating air delivery.

Alveoli and Gas Exchange

• Alveoli: tiny sacs with walls one cell thick, maximizing diffusion efficiency for gas exchange.
• Surface area for gas exchange estimated at 50 to 75 square meters, equivalent to a tennis court.

Lung Structure

• Right lung: consists of three lobes, each covered by pleura with pleural fluid for protection.
• Left lung: has two lobes and is smaller due to the heart's position.

Ventilation Mechanics

• Negative pressure breathing: inhalation relies on decreased pressure in the lungs; diaphragm contraction increases lung volume.
• Lung volumes: increased volume decreases internal lung pressure, drawing air in during inhalation; exhalation occurs as volume and pressure decrease.

Lung Capacities

• Total lung capacity: average 6 liters for adults, comprising vital capacity and residual volume.
• Residual volume: air that prevents lung collapse.
• Vital capacity: total exchangeable air volume during breathing.

Respiratory Regulation and pH Influence

• Ventilation rate controlled by the medulla oblongata, monitoring blood pH and CO2 levels.
• Decreased blood pH (acidosis) prompts increased ventilation; increased pH (alkalosis) leads to decreased ventilation.

Negative Impact on Lung Function

• Factors: genetic disorders, environmental issues, infections.
• Cystic fibrosis: caused by genetic mutation leading to thick mucus and breathing difficulties.
• Surfactant insufficiency: results in breathing challenges, often in newborns.

Respiratory Pathologies

• Asthma: airway inflammation characterized by triggers and genetics, making breathing difficult.
• Emphysema: leads to alveoli breakdown from smoking and chemical exposure.
• Pathogens: examples include flu, tuberculosis, and walking pneumonia, each with distinct symptoms.

Surfactant and Cilia Functions

• Surfactant: reduces surface tension in alveoli to prevent collapse.
• Cilia: line the respiratory tract, moving mucus and trapped particles to maintain airway cleanliness.

This quiz provides a comprehensive set of flashcards focused on the respiratory system as featured in the ATI TEAS 6 exam. Test your understanding of the key components and functions of the respiratory system, including its interaction with the cardiovascular system. Perfect for students preparing for nursing and healthcare fields.