Pathophysiology: The Respiratory System

Course #38822 - $90-


Study Points

  1. Identify the key structures and functional inter-relationships in the respiratory system.
  2. Describe the components and functions of pulmonary circulation.
  3. Discuss the pathophysiologic and environmental influences and effects on the respiratory system.
  4. Outline the role of subjective data in completing a full nursing assessment of the respiratory system.
  5. Describe objective data compiled during a nursing assessment of the respiratory system.
  6. Identify diagnostic tests used in the identification and classification of respiratory diseases.
  7. Outline the nursing diagnoses, planning, and management of conditions related to respiratory dysfunction.
  8. Discuss clinical manifestations of infectious diseases of the upper respiratory system.
  9. Review signs and symptoms of upper respiratory neoplasms and related nursing actions.
  10. Describe the common causes, appearances, and treatment of traumatic disorders of the upper respiratory disorders.
  11. Analyze the presentation and nursing management of occupational lung diseases.
  12. Evaluate pathologic causes and manifestations of disorders of the lower respiratory tract.
  13. Discuss the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of traumatic respiratory disorders.
  14. Outline the concepts and information the nurse should provide for the patient during the health teaching and discharge planning process after respiratory surgery.
  15. Describe key concepts related to caring for patients who receive thoracic surgery.

    1 . Respiration involves what two major body systems?
    A) Inspiratory and respiratory systems
    B) Respiratory and eliminatory systems
    C) Cardiovascular and respiratory systems
    D) Gastrointestinal and respiratory systems

    THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM IN HEALTH AND ILLNESS: STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTER-RELATIONSHIPS

    Respiration involves two major body systems: the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system, both regulated by the nervous system. Oxygen and CO2 are conveyed to and from tissues and organs by the cardiovascular system. The respiratory system delivers oxygen from the atmosphere to the bloodstream and delivers CO2 from the blood to the atmosphere. This gas exchange takes place in specialized structures of the lungs.

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    2 . All of the following are paranasal sinuses, EXCEPT:
    A) Frontal
    B) Ethmoid
    C) Posterior
    D) Maxillary

    THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM IN HEALTH AND ILLNESS: STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTER-RELATIONSHIPS

    The paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities within bony structures adjacent to the nasal cavity. These sinuses—the ethmoid, frontal, sphenoid, and maxillary sinuses—drain through the nasal cavity. All are lined with ciliated columnar epithelium that is continuous with the lining of the nose. Because the mucosa is continuous, infection in the nasal passages can readily spread to the sinuses.

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    3 . Oxygenation of blood occurs in the
    A) right lung.
    B) pulmonary circulation.
    C) cardiovascular system.
    D) tracheobronchial circulation.

    THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM IN HEALTH AND ILLNESS: STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTER-RELATIONSHIPS

    The pulmonary circulation is where oxygenation of blood occurs. The entire output of the right ventricle leaves the heart via the pulmonary artery, which divides into the right and left pulmonary arteries. This poorly oxygenated blood circulates through the capillaries of the alveoli, where gas exchange takes place. Oxygenated blood is then returned to the left atrium via the pulmonary veins [6,11].

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    4 . Under normal conditions, the approximate partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli is
    A) 25 mm Hg.
    B) 50 mm Hg.
    C) 105 mm Hg.
    D) 175 mm Hg.

    THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM IN HEALTH AND ILLNESS: STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTER-RELATIONSHIPS

    The venous blood returning from the tissues is high in CO2 and low in oxygen; the air in the alveolar space is higher in oxygen and lower in CO2 than the blood. Under normal conditions, the approximate partial pressures of oxygen in the alveoli and the capillaries are 105 mm Hg and 40 mm Hg, respectively. The partial pressure of CO2 is 45 mm Hg in the capillaries and 35 mm Hg in the alveoli.

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    5 . Which of the following conditions may result in wasted ventilation?
    A) Dehydration
    B) Pulmonary embolism
    C) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    D) All of the above

    PATHOPHYSIOLOGIC INFLUENCES AND EFFECTS

    Without perfusion, gas exchange cannot take place. This condition is called wasted ventilation, because ventilation of the alveoli brings about no exchange of CO2 for oxygen. Conditions related to wasted ventilation include a decrease in total blood volume (in hemorrhage or dehydration), pulmonary embolism, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Emphysema may also destroy both alveoli and capillaries within portions of the lungs, so neither ventilation nor perfusion can take place. If large areas of the lungs are affected by wasted ventilation, hypoxemia and hypercapnia with related respiratory acidosis can occur [18].

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    6 . Normally, the circulation contains approximately
    A) 15 g of hemoglobin to carry about 20 mL of oxygen.
    B) 20 g of hemoglobin to carry about 15 mL of oxygen.
    C) 50 g of hemoglobin to carry about 70 mL of oxygen.
    D) 150 g of hemoglobin to carry about 200 mL of oxygen.

    RELATED SYSTEM INFLUENCES AND EFFECTS

    Oxygen obtained during gas exchange in the pulmonary circulation must combine with hemoglobin to be transported to the tissues. Normally, the circulation contains approximately 15 g of hemoglobin to carry about 20 mL of oxygen at any given time. If the hemoglobin concentration is less than normal (i.e., anemia), the capacity of the blood to transport oxygen will be reduced [18,22].

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    7 . Which of the following professions is associated with an increased risk of pulmonary disease?
    A) Teacher
    B) Dry cleaning clerk
    C) Respiratory therapist
    D) Computer programmer

    PSYCHOSOCIAL/LIFESTYLE INFLUENCES AND EFFECTS

    Occupation is a significant factor in the development of some respiratory disorders. "Black lung disease," which affects coal miners, is a well-publicized example; asbestosis is another. Solvents in paints and varnishes have also been implicated in respiratory disorders, not only among factory workers and professional painters, but among hobbyists as well. A timely question about recent craft or hobby projects cans yield a valuable diagnostic clue about respiratory ailments. Clerks in dry cleaning establishments and beauticians exposed to permanent wave solutions (ammonia) and hair dyes may also develop respiratory abnormalities [25].

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    8 . Which of the following is a possible upper respiratory cause of cough?
    A) Sinusitis
    B) Bronchitis
    C) Pneumonia
    D) Bronchiectasis

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Another common symptom of respiratory disorders is a cough. Cough can result from irritation or from retained secretions that obstruct part of the airway. Causative disorders in the upper airway include sinusitis (leading to postnasal drip) and infections of the pharynx; causative disorders in the lower respiratory tract include bronchitis, bronchiectasis, and pneumonia. The patient should be asked whether the cough is productive or nonproductive. If the cough is productive, ask about the color, amount, odor, and consistency of the sputum. Inquire also about precipitating factors and the frequency of the cough.

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    9 . Laryngeal paralysis may result from
    A) sinusitis.
    B) laryngitis.
    C) pneumonia.
    D) aortic aneurysm.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Having determined that chest pain does not stem from a disorder demanding immediate intervention, ask whether the patient has experienced any voice change. This symptom can be caused by infections of the pharynx, vocal nodules, laryngeal paralysis, and laryngeal tumors. Laryngeal paralysis results from damage to the recurrent or superior laryngeal nerve or the vagus nerve (e.g., due to bronchogenic carcinoma or an aortic aneurysm). Ask the patient how long ago the voice change occurred and whether it is associated with pain when speaking or swallowing.

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    10 . Tissue overlying the turbinates may be hypertrophied in the presence of
    A) pneumonia.
    B) emphysema.
    C) chronic allergic rhinitis.
    D) acute respiratory distress.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    The appearance of the inferior and middle turbinates should be assessed. Tissue overlying the turbinates may become hypertrophied in conditions such as chronic allergic rhinitis. Sinusitis may result in a decrease in transillumination of the frontal and maxillary sinuses. Skin over these areas may also appear reddened in the presence of an infection [30].

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    11 . "Barrel chest" is a common finding in patients with
    A) COPD.
    B) sinusitis.
    C) flail chest.
    D) kyphoscoliosis.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Inspection of the chest may reveal thoracic deformities such as kyphoscoliosis or an increased anteroposterior diameter (i.e., "barrel chest"). Kyphoscoliosis reduces thoracic movement and limits lung expansion. "Barrel chest" is a common finding in patients with COPD. Asymmetrical chest expansion can result from trauma (e.g., pneumothorax, hemothorax, flail chest). General overall appearance, such as facial expression, posture, and ease of movement, should also be assessed. Patients with COPD may have to sit up or lean forward in a chair in order to breathe [30].

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    12 . When fluid is present in the frontal or maxillary sinuses, percussion over the sinuses produces
    A) crepitus.
    B) a dull sound.
    C) hyper-resonance.
    D) massive consolidation.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Percussion of the chest produces sounds that can help locate abnormalities in the lungs. The sound heard over normal lung tissue is called resonance. Hyper-resonance is noted when air trapping occurs, as in emphysema or a pneumothorax. Dullness may be heard in the presence of a small pleural effusion, atelectasis, or hemothorax. Flatness (the same sound transmitted with percussion over the thigh) may be heard with massive consolidation or a large pleural effusion. Consolidation refers to an area of the lung that has become more dense either because air is not reaching the alveoli or because the alveoli are filled with fluid or secretions. When fluid is present in the frontal or maxillary sinuses, as in sinusitis, percussion over the sinus produces a dull sound.

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    13 . Tidal volume is defined as
    A) the expiratory reserve.
    B) the amount air inspired and expired with each normal breath.
    C) the amount of air that remains in the lungs after forceful expiration.
    D) the volume of air that can be forcefully expired at the end of a normal breath.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Spirometry is able to measure tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, and expiratory reserve volume. Tidal volume is the amount of air inspired and expired with each normal breath. The normal value is approximately 500 mL. Inspiratory reserve volume is the additional volume of air that can be inspired beyond the normal tidal volume. It amounts to approximately 3,000 mL. Expiratory reserve volume is the volume of air that can be forcefully expired at the end of the normal tidal expiration. This is about 1,100 mL in healthy individuals. Residual volume consists of the amount of air that remains in the lungs after a forceful expiration. This usually equals about 1,200 mL.

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    14 . A healthy individual can expire 100% of vital capacity in
    A) one second.
    B) three seconds.
    C) five seconds.
    D) nine seconds.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Pulmonary volumes are measured in time intervals. Forced vital capacity (also referred to as forced expiratory volume) is the maximum pulmonary volume the patient has for ventilation. The patient inhales the maximum amount of air and then forcefully exhales as fast as possible. The amount of air the patient can forcefully exhale within a specific time period is calculated. The usual time periods are one, two, and three seconds. A healthy individual can usually exhale approximately 75% of vital capacity in one second and 100% by three seconds.

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    15 . The normal pH of arterial blood is
    A) 6.35 to 6.45.
    B) 7.35 to 7.45.
    C) 7.65 to 8.0.
    D) 8.35 to 8.45.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    The normal pH of arterial blood is 7.35 to 7.45. Values less than 7.35 indicate acidemia, while those greater than 7.45 are indicative of alkalemia. The normal pH range is maintained primarily by two buffers: carbonic acid and bicarbonate [34].

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    16 . A negative reaction to a tuberculin skin test
    A) is <5 mm in diameter.
    B) is often a misread conversion.
    C) indicates a strong immune system.
    D) rules out tuberculosis as the source of infection.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    A reaction of <5 mm is negative. Reactions >10 mm are "positive." An intermediate reaction of 5–10 mm is suspicious for prior infection in high-risk persons.

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    17 . Open lung biopsy requires a
    A) thoracotomy.
    B) thoracentesis.
    C) fine-needle aspiration.
    D) fiber-optic bronchoscope.

    NURSING ASSESSMENT: ESTABLISHING THE DATA BASE

    Both open and closed approaches are used to obtain lung tissue for cytologic analysis and culture. Closed approaches include fine-needle aspiration, biopsy via a percutaneous cutting needle, and biopsy via fiber-optic bronchoscope. All closed procedures are done under local anesthesia with fluoroscopic guidance. Open biopsy requires a thoracotomy. This approach provides the largest volume of tissue, but general anesthesia is needed. Lung biopsy is indicated when the patient's diagnosis remains unclear despite a complete work-up [12,32].

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    18 . Pursed-lip breathing
    A) promotes CO2 elimination.
    B) prevents collapse of small bronchioles.
    C) reduces the amount of trapped air in the lungs.
    D) All of the above

    NURSING DIAGNOSES, PLANNING, AND IMPLEMENTATION

    Pursed-lip breathing—a slow, even expiration against pursed lips—prevents collapse of small bronchioles, reduces the amount of trapped air in the lungs, and promotes CO2 elimination. To assume the proper lip position for pursed-lip breathing, have the patient in a sitting position pretend to blow out a candle. As noted, patients with emphysema can use pursed-lip breathing to maximize expiration.

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    19 . Respiratory acidosis occurs when a disorder
    A) produces hypoventilation.
    B) interferes with gas exchange.
    C) results in a high level of bicarbonate in the blood.
    D) increases the amount of effective alveolar ventilation.

    NURSING DIAGNOSES, PLANNING, AND IMPLEMENTATION

    Respiratory acidosis occurs when a disorder results in interference with gas exchange or decreases the amount of effective alveolar ventilation. The underlying cause of this abnormal state is always related to hypoventilation. Respiratory acidosis is observed in certain patients with COPD, pneumonia, or decreased respiratory function as a result of medication/illicit drugs or trauma. Patients in respiratory acidosis may exhibit confusion, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, tetany, asterixis, tachycardia, dysrhythmias, convulsions, and/or coma [34,35].

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    20 . Which of the following statements regarding angioedema is TRUE?
    A) Onset is usually gradual.
    B) The condition tends to be mild and benign.
    C) The condition can progress to total obstruction and death.
    D) Angioedema only involves structures other than the larynx.

    DISORDERS OF THE UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The initial symptom of laryngeal edema is often hoarseness. As the condition progresses, the patient may lose the ability to speak. When inspected by indirect mirror laryngoscopy, the laryngeal structures and vocal cords may appear swollen. As obstruction becomes more severe, dyspnea, stridor, tachypnea, and cyanosis may occur. With the exception of angioedema, onset of the edema is usually gradual and involves structures other than the larynx. In the case of angioedema, symptoms and signs of laryngeal obstruction develop rapidly and the condition can progress to total obstruction and death [36].

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    21 . Which of the following is a clinical manifestation of epiglottitis?
    A) Markedly increased hunger
    B) Chronic sore throat (longer than 48 hours)
    C) Depressed temperature (less than 98 degrees F)
    D) Pain in the area of the hyoid at the base of the tongue

    DISORDERS OF THE UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Typically, epiglottitis is manifested by sore throat of short duration (less than 12 hours) and rapidly increasing severity, pain in the area of the hyoid at the base of the tongue, significant dysphagia, and elevation of temperature that may reach 103 degrees F. Secretions may be so copious that the patient drools. Hoarseness is minimal, but the patient's voice may have a muffled quality. Respiratory obstruction becomes evident as the inflammation progresses. Although the enlarged, cherry red epiglottis may be seen by means of indirect laryngoscopy, lateral x-rays of the neck taken with the patient in an upright position are a less hazardous means of diagnosis. Manipulation can aggravate edema, leading to sudden total occlusion of the airway. Cultures of blood and secretions may be used to isolate the causative organism. A leukocyte count of 18,000–24,000 cells/mcL is common [36].

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    22 . The most common malignant laryngeal neoplasm is
    A) glottic carcinoma.
    B) subglottic carcinoma.
    C) transglottic carcinoma.
    D) supraglottic carcinoma.

    DISORDERS OF THE UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Although benign neoplasms of the larynx do occur, they are usually small, easily removed papillomas. Malignant laryngeal neoplasms may be classified according to locus of origin as:

    • Glottic (arising from the larynx)

    • Supraglottic (arising above the larynx)

    • Subglottic (arising below the larynx)

    • Transglottic

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    23 . All of the following are common clinical manifestations of supraglottic carcinoma, EXCEPT:
    A) Otalgia
    B) Hoarseness
    C) Lump in the neck
    D) Change in voice quality

    DISORDERS OF THE UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Hoarseness is uncommon with supraglottic carcinoma. Patients may report a sensation of "something in the throat" or a change in voice quality. The throat may burn when hot or acidic liquid is ingested. The patient may notice a lump in the neck, which may be the reason for consulting a healthcare provider. Pain unrelated to ulceration may occur, as may referred otalgia. Later symptoms include pain, hoarseness, and dyspnea related to obstruction of the airway [29].

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    24 . The most common cause of blunt laryngotracheal trauma is
    A) falls.
    B) stabbing injury.
    C) gunshot wound.
    D) automobile accidents.

    DISORDERS OF THE UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Automobile accidents in which an individual is thrown against the steering wheel or dashboard at a high rate of speed are the most common cause of blunt laryngotracheal trauma. Penetrating injuries are often caused by sharp objects (e.g., stab wounds). Iatrogenic laryngeal injury can occur in relation to endoscopy, endotracheal intubation, or tracheotomy; improper endoscopic technique can dislocate the larynx or tear the laryngeal mucosa. Pressure exerted by the cuff of an endotracheal or tracheostomy tube against the arytenoid cartilage may result in formation of scar tissue (arytenoid stenosis), although this occurs less frequently with the introduction of low-pressure cuffs [36,40,41].

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    25 . Which of the following is considered an occupational pneumoconiosis?
    A) Silicosis
    B) Asbestosis
    C) Coal workers' pneumoconiosis
    D) All of the above

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Pneumoconioses are lung diseases resulting from inhalation of inorganic dusts. Silicosis, asbestosis, and coal workers' pneumoconiosis fall into this category.

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    26 . All of the following conditions may lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), EXCEPT:
    A) Sinusitis
    B) Aspiration
    C) Septic shock
    D) Drug overdose

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a pathophysiologic state best recognized in patients with no previous underlying lung disease who experience a sudden, catastrophic, often multisystem insult that leads to the development of severe dyspnea, hypoxemia, loss of pulmonary compliance, and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. ARDS is not a clearly defined disease, but is rather an umbrella term for a group of conditions of different etiology having similar manifestations. Many factors can lead to the development of ARDS, including major insults such as shock, multisystem trauma, aspiration, overwhelming systemic infections (sepsis), drug overdose, and inhaled toxic substances. ARDS has also been called shock lung, white lung, Da Nang lung, adult hyaline membrane disease, stiff lung syndrome, and wet lung.

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    27 . Acute bronchitis
    A) is not aggravated by smoking.
    B) will not resolve without active treatment.
    C) is associated with decreased sputum production.
    D) is characterized by cough and a burning substernal sensation.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The major symptoms of acute bronchitis include cough, a burning substernal sensation (often aggravated by a deep breath), and sputum production. As the infection progresses, sputum becomes mucoid or purulent. The patient may or may not have an elevated temperature. Malaise, muscle aches, and headache are common. Chest auscultation reveals rales, rhonchi, and wheezes. The disease is self-limiting, and the duration depends on the underlying causative organism. Smoking tends to prolong and aggravate the condition [44].

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    28 . Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract usually accompanied by
    A) rash, fever, and cough.
    B) fever, chest pain, and cough.
    C) cough, diarrhea, and vomiting.
    D) cough, fever, malaise, and chest x-ray abnormalities.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that is usually accompanied by cough, fever, malaise, and chest x-ray abnormalities. Sputum production, dyspnea, hypoxia, and hemoptysis may be present in some individuals with pneumonia, depending on the causative organism. The disease is further classified as community-acquired, healthcare-associated, or hospital-acquired according to how and where it was contracted.

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    29 . Hospital-acquired pneumonia is defined as any pneumonia
    A) that requires hospitalization.
    B) in a resident of a long-term care facility.
    C) in a patient who has been hospitalized 48 hours prior to onset of symptoms.
    D) caused by multidrug-resistant organisms in the absence of known contact with a carrier.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is defined as any pneumonia in a patient who has been hospitalized 48 hours prior to onset of symptoms and that was not incubating prior to admission [47]. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) refers to a pneumonia that develops at least 48 hours after intubation and the initiation of mechanical ventilation. An additional subtype of pneumonia is healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP), which refers to pneumonia in patients who are not hospitalized but have had contact with the healthcare system. Guidelines for patients with HCAP were previously included with those for HAP and VAP due to patients' contact with the healthcare system and the presumed high risk of multidrug-resistant pathogens. However, recommendations specific to HCAP were removed from the updated 2016 IDSA guidelines for the management of HAP and VAP due to increasing evidence that patients defined as having HCAP are not necessarily at high risk for multidrug-resistant pathogens. Although interaction with the healthcare system potentially puts patients at risk for these pathogens, underlying patient characteristics are important independent determinants of risk [47].

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    30 . The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is
    A) influenza A virus.
    B) Legionella pneumophila.
    C) Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
    D) Streptococcus pneumoniae.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is the gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, estimated to be the cause of 20% to 60% of pneumonia cases [49]. Possible gram-negative infective organisms include Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. K. pneumoniae infections are more commonly diagnosed when there is co-existent alcoholism [45,47]. S. aureus and H. influenzae infections often occur after a primary influenza infection. M. catarrhalis, an organism not thought to be pathogenic, is most commonly found in those with chronic lung conditions, such as COPD [50]. It is also found in patients with diabetes, who are taking steroids, or who have other underlying chronic lung conditions or malignancy [50].

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    31 . The most common early signs/symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis are
    A) dry cough.
    B) rales and rhonchi.
    C) chest pain upon inspiration.
    D) productive cough, malaise, and weight loss.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The early symptoms of active pulmonary TB are often so subtle as to be missed at first by most patients. Because of this, they will frequently have difficulty pinpointing exactly when their illness began. Some patients without obvious symptoms are diagnosed solely by a routine chest x-ray. For those who do have symptoms, the most common manifestations are gradual onset and progression of fever, malaise, cough, anorexia, and weight loss. The fever is one that is not so high as to be noticed or to be disquieting. When the fever breaks during the early morning hours, it is often associated with "night sweats." Weight loss may result from the infectious process itself, or it can be a sign that malnutrition and depletion of immune reserves preceded, and to some extent caused, the infection.

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    32 . All of the following are common signs/ symptoms of lung abscess, EXCEPT:
    A) Fever
    B) Chills
    C) Weight gain
    D) Pleuritic chest pain

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The most common symptoms of lung abscess include fever, chills, malaise, anorexia, cough, and pleuritic chest pain. When the abscess ruptures into a bronchus, the cough is productive of copious amounts of purulent sputum, which may be foul smelling, bloody, and dark brown in color. Cavitary lesions that result from abscess formation are visible on chest x-ray. The prognosis of lung abscess, if not complicated by an underlying malignancy or other progressive lung disease, is generally good if the organism responsible is treated [71].

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    33 . Empyema is
    A) chronic progressive lung disease.
    B) usually a complication of pneumonia.
    C) the accumulation of pus in the pleural space.
    D) a component of COPD.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Empyema is the accumulation of pus in the pleural space or a purulent pleural effusion. The use of antibiotics in the treatment of lung infections has greatly reduced the occurrence of empyema, but it can develop as a complication of a penetrating chest wound or thoracic surgery [71].

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    34 . In the United States, histoplasmosis is more prevalent in
    A) western states.
    B) the Rocky Mountains.
    C) the Four Corners region.
    D) the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Histoplasmosis is caused by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. It occurs worldwide, but in the United States, it is more prevalent in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys. The organism flourishes in a temperate climate, and its growth is enhanced in soil that contains chicken, starling, or blackbird droppings or bat guano. The fungi become airborne and may be inhaled when the soil is disturbed; transmission from person to person does not occur [71].

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    35 . Bronchiectasis is a common complication of
    A) lupus.
    B) cystic fibrosis.
    C) lung carcinoma.
    D) rheumatoid arthritis.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Bronchiectasis is a permanent abnormal dilation of one or more large bronchi caused by destruction of the elastic and muscular components of the bronchial wall. While the number of people developing bronchiectasis as a complication of severe pulmonary infection is decreasing, bronchiectasis remains a common complication of certain systemic disorders, particularly cystic fibrosis [71].

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    36 . Asthma is defined as a(n)
    A) chronic, curable disease.
    B) non-reversible respiratory condition.
    C) chronic, reversible respiratory disorder.
    D) intermittent, seasonal respiratory disease.

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    Asthma is considered a chronic, albeit reversible, respiratory disorder. This inflammatory condition produces hyper-reactive and hyper-responsive airway and lungs, causing episodic, reversible airway obstruction through bronchospasms, increased mucus secretions, and mucosal edema [73,74,75]. The hyper-reactive lungs of patients with asthma are more sensitive than most individuals' and may become inflamed or edematous when exposed to irritants, such as cold air, animal dander, dust, tobacco smoke, or grass [74,75]. The patient's immune system over-reacts to these irritants, constricting the airways and filling them with mucus; constricted airways interfere with the movement of air in and out of the lungs, making breathing difficult [74,75].

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    37 . Which of the following is NOT one of the cardinal signs and symptoms of COPD?
    A) Xerostomia
    B) Chronic cough
    C) Breathlessness
    D) Limited exercise tolerance

    DISORDERS OF THE LOWER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

    The cardinal signs and symptoms of COPD are chronic cough, sputum production, breathlessness (shortness of breath and dyspnea), and limited exercise tolerance. Other common signs that may be present in COPD include:

    • Tachypnea

    • Pursed-lip breathing

    • Prolonged expiration phase of breathing (compared with inspiration)

    • Active use of neck muscles during breathing

    • Increased resonance of the chest (by percussion) caused by hyperaeration and emphysematous change

    • Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest ("barrel chest")

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    38 . Breathing in patients with chest trauma may be accompanied by
    A) pain.
    B) a sucking sound.
    C) asymmetrical chest movement.
    D) All of the above

    TRAUMATIC DISORDERS

    Breathing in patients with chest trauma may be accompanied by pain, dyspnea, asymmetrical chest movement, paradoxical chest movement, a sucking sound, poor tidal volume, and/or symptoms of hypoxia or hypercapnia. Cyanosis may be a later manifestation. Circulation may be affected and may be detected by such signs as jugular venous distention, tachycardia, dysrhythmias, hypovolemic shock, and cardiogenic shock. It is always assumed that victims of chest trauma have suffered a spinal cord injury until x-rays prove otherwise. Patients with chest trauma may fall at any point on the spectrum between alert/oriented and comatose; if alert, they may be very apprehensive [106,107].

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    39 . All of the following are indications for tracheotomy, EXCEPT:
    A) Mechanical ventilation for two days
    B) Critical illness making breathing difficult
    C) An obstructed upper airway caused by a tumor
    D) A neurologic disorder paralyzing the chest muscles and diaphragm

    TRAUMATIC DISORDERS

    Tracheotomy is performed to obtain a temporary opening into the trachea. If the trachea is sutured to make a permanent opening, it is a tracheostomy. This technique is performed to provide access for aspiration of the bronchial tree or to relieve upper airway obstruction. It may be employed when a patient is unable to cough effectively and expel secretions. Indications for a tracheotomy include [108]:

    • Mechanical ventilation for more than 7 to 10 days

    • An artificial airway is required but the patient is not a candidate for orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation (because of severe facial injuries)

    • Weakness or critical illness making breathing difficult

    • A neurologic disorder paralyzing the chest muscles and diaphragm

    • An obstructed upper airway caused by a tumor of the trachea or pharynx

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    40 . Which of the following is a possible complication of thoracic surgery?
    A) Hypertension
    B) Pulmonary edema
    C) Occupational pneumoconiosis
    D) Both A and C

    THORACIC SURGERY

    Other possible complications following thoracic surgery include hemorrhage, hypotension, infection, cardiac dysrhythmia, respiratory failure, pulmonary edema, subcutaneous emphysema, residual pleural space, persistent air leak, bronchopleural fistula, and emphysema [108]. With pulmonary resection, there is a permanent decrease in pulmonary function [108].

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