Physiology of Respiration

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Questions and Answers

What is the best method to accurately assess respiratory rate in a patient?

Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2

Count while the patient is unaware and at rest (correct)

Count the breaths for a full minute regardless of regularity

Count while the patient is active

Which of the following factors is NOT known to influence respiratory rate?

Pain

Stress

Exercise

Hydration levels (correct)

What condition is characterized by alternating periods of very deep to very shallow breathing?

Cheyne-Stokes respiration (correct)

Hypopnea

Orthopnea

Apnea

Which description best describes the expected respiratory rate for a healthy older adult?

Stable, within the range of 12-20 breaths per minute Signup and view all the answers

Which pulse oximeter reading is considered normal?

≥ 96% Signup and view all the answers

What would likely happen if a patient has dark nail polish while using a pulse oximeter?

It could interfere with the accuracy of the readings Signup and view all the answers

What is likely observed in older adults concerning chest expansion?

Decreased chest expansion due to thoracic cavity changes Signup and view all the answers

If a pulse oximeter reading falls below 80%, what condition can occur?

Unconsciousness Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of inspiration in respiration?

To take oxygen into the lungs Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brain is primarily responsible for involuntary control of respiration?

Medulla oblongata and pons Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the involuntary respiratory control mechanism?

Accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following defines eupnea in adults?

12-20 breaths per minute Signup and view all the answers

What is bradypnea characterized by?

Abnormally slow breathing Signup and view all the answers

What physiological response occurs when oxygen levels fall below normal?

Increase in respiratory rate Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a form of voluntary control over respiration?

Talking Signup and view all the answers

What does apnea refer to in respiratory terms?

Cessation of breathing Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Process of Respiration

Inspiration: The act of inhaling oxygen into the lungs for gas exchange, primarily taking in O2 and releasing CO2.
Expiration: The process of exhaling carbon dioxide from the body, releasing waste products of respiration.

Physiologic Control of Respiration

Involuntary Control: Primarily regulated by the medulla oblongata and pons; receptor sites respond to CO2 levels.
- Increased CO2 in the blood stimulates impulses to the brainstem, leading to higher respiration rate and depth.
- Receptor sites located in the aortic arch and carotid arteries trigger breathing when oxygen levels drop.
Voluntary Control: Can be consciously influenced, e.g., during talking or singing, but involuntary control resumes with high CO2 levels.

Respiratory Rates

Eupnea: Normal respiratory rate for adults is between 12-20 breaths per minute.
Tachypnea: Abnormally fast breathing, exceeding 20 breaths per minute.
Bradypnea: Abnormally slow breathing, under 12 breaths per minute.
Apnea: Complete cessation of breathing.

Assessing Respiratory Factors

Rate: Evaluate if breathing count is within normal limits, as well as other factors like depth (normal, deep, or shallow).
Rhythm: Check for regularity; note conditions such as dyspnea, apnea, orthopnea, or Cheyne-Stokes respiration.
Character: Assess the effort used in breathing (e.g., labored, use of accessory muscles), and any abnormal sounds.

Best Practices for Counting Respirations

Ensure the patient is quiet and comfortable, preferably seated or resting.
Count respiratory movements discreetly to avoid interference.
Observe chest movements; place a hand on the chest for accurate assessment.
Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2, or for 60 seconds when rates are irregular.

Factors Affecting Respiratory Rate

Physical exercise increases metabolism, leading to higher respiration rates.
Psychological factors like stress and anxiety stimulate the sympathetic nervous system.
Pain can alter breathing patterns.
Certain medications, especially opioid analgesics, can depress respiratory function.
Neurological injuries may impact respiratory regulation.

Respiratory Considerations for Older Adults

Normal respiration rates remain at 12-20 breaths per minute in healthy older adults.
Chest expansion often reduces due to anatomical changes in the thoracic cavity.
Aging leads to a decline in lung elastic recoil, increasing the effort required to breathe, and decreasing physiological reserve.

Pulse Oximetry

A non-invasive method to measure arterial blood oxygen saturation using a finger sensor, with options for earlobe, toes, or forehead sensing.
Pulse oximetry values:
- Normal saturation: ≥96%
- Levels below 92% indicate need for supplemental oxygen.
- <84% suggests patient may be lethargic and restless.
- <80% indicates possible unconsciousness.
- <70% is considered life-threatening.

Factors Influencing Pulse Oximeter Readings

Dark nail polish can interfere with light detection by the sensor.
Patient movement can lead to inaccurate readings.
Reduced circulation may affect sensor accuracy.
Proper sensor placement is crucial for reliable measurements.

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Description

Explore the essential processes of respiration, focusing on inspiration and expiration. Understand the physiological control mechanisms regulating breath and the different respiratory rates. This quiz covers key concepts such as involuntary and voluntary control of respiration.