Oxygenation Quiz: Respiratory System Nursing Concepts

Study Notes

Oxygen is a clear gas constituting 21% of the air we breathe, crucial for cellular function and organism survival.
Respiration involves ventilation (breathing), alveolar capillary gas exchange, transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide between tissues and lungs, and movement of gases between systemic capillaries and tissues.
The respiratory system is divided into upper (nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx) and lower (trachea, bronchi, alveoli) parts, filtering air and facilitating gas exchange.
Pulmonary ventilation involves inspiration (air in) and expiration (air out), dependent on clear airways, intact CNS, and adequate pulmonary compliance.
Intrapleural pressure is negative, creating suction for lung expansion, while intrapulmonary pressure equalizes with atmospheric pressure during breathing.
Tidal volume is around 500ml in a healthy adult, representing air moved during normal inhalation/exhalation.
Lung compliance refers to tissue stretchability and ease of ventilation, decreasing with age and affecting alveoli expansion.
Surfactant, a lipoprotein, reduces surface tension in alveoli, aiding lung expansion and preventing collapse.
Alveolar gas exchange involves oxygen diffusion into pulmonary vessels, while transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide is crucial for tissue function.
Factors affecting oxygen transport include cardiac output, red blood cell count, hematocrit, exercise, and pathologic conditions affecting blood flow.
Respiratory function can be affected by airway obstructions, breathing pattern disorders, diffusion impairments, and issues with gas transport.
Nursing assessments include history taking, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to evaluate respiratory status.
Possible nursing diagnoses for respiratory issues include ineffective airway clearance, impaired gas exchange, and activity intolerance.
Nursing interventions for oxygenation problems include deep breathing exercises, hydration, medication administration, and postural drainage techniques.
Oxygen therapy is administered to address hypoxemia and hypoxia, with various low flow (cannula, simple mask) and high flow (venturi mask, tracheostomy collar) devices available.
Other interventions include mini nebulizer therapy, endotracheal intubation for emergency airway management, and tracheotomy/tracheostomy for long-term airway support.