Questions and Answers
What are some nursing interventions for age-related changes in alveolar function?
Include inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation in lung assessments; help patient actively maintain health and fitness; assess patient's respirations for abnormal breathing patterns; encourage frequent oral hygiene.
What happens to the alveolar surface area with aging?
The ability to cough increases with age.
False
Name a change that occurs in the bronchioles with aging.
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Which statement about the pharynx and larynx with aging is true?
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What is a rationale for assessing a patient's respirations?
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Oral hygiene is not important for respiratory health.
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Study Notes
Aging and the Pulmonary System
- Alveolar surface area decreases, impacting respiratory efficiency.
- Diffusion capacity declines, leading to reduced oxygen transfer.
- Elastic recoil diminishes, making it harder to expel air from the lungs.
- Dilation of bronchioles and alveolar ducts occurs, affecting airflow.
- Cough reflex weakens, reducing the ability to clear secretions.
- Airways tend to close prematurely during exhalation, hindering breathing.
Nursing Interventions for Age-Related Changes
- Perform thorough lung assessments using inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation to identify normal aging alterations.
- Encourage active health and fitness maintenance to minimize respiratory function decline.
- Monitor respiration for abnormal patterns (e.g., Cheyne-Stokes), as they can indicate underlying issues.
- Promote frequent oral hygiene practices to help clear respiratory secretions.
Effects on Pharynx and Larynx
- Muscle atrophy occurs, contributing to weakened throat structures.
- Vocal cords slacken, affecting voice quality and clarity.
- Loss of elasticity in laryngeal muscles and reduction of airway cartilage occur, potentially leading to obstructive issues.
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Description
This quiz explores the changes in the pulmonary system associated with aging, focusing specifically on alveoli and their impact on respiratory function. Test your knowledge on the physiological alterations that occur in the lungs as we age.
