Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

Accepted Answer

To serve as the main site for gas exchange between air and blood

Question 2

A patient with a deviated nasal septum is most likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Obstructed airflow through one nostril

Question 3

Which structure prevents food from entering the larynx during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 4

A child inhales a small toy. In which bronchus is the object most likely to lodge, and why?

Accepted Answer

Right primary bronchus, because it is more vertical

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why surfactant is critical for normal lung function?

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse during exhalation

Question 6

A patient presents with cycles of alternating apnea and hyperventilation. This breathing pattern is known as:

Accepted Answer

Cheyne-Stokes respiration

Question 7

Which of the following equations correctly represents the relationship between pressure and volume during pulmonary ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$P_1$$ $$V_1$$ = $$P_2$$ $$V_2$$

Question 8

During forceful expiration, which muscles are primarily responsible for decreasing the size of the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

Internal intercostals and abdominal muscles

Question 9

Which of the following is the largest volume of air that can be exhaled after taking the deepest possible breath?

Accepted Answer

Vital capacity (VC)

Question 10

A patient with pneumonia has alveoli filled with exudate. What is the most direct consequence of this condition?

Accepted Answer

Reduced efficiency of gas exchange

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the respiratory mucosa?

Accepted Answer

It lines the airways and traps inspired irritants with mucus

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a way that carbon dioxide is transported in the blood?

Accepted Answer

As oxyhemoglobin

Question 13

A patient with a collapsed lung due to air in the pleural space is diagnosed with:

Accepted Answer

Pneumothorax

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why the trachea does not collapse during breathing?

Accepted Answer

It is supported by C-shaped rings of cartilage

Question 15

Which of the following is the main mechanism for gas exchange in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Simple diffusion

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of the medullary rhythmicity area in the brainstem?

Accepted Answer

It produces the normal rate and depth of respirations under resting conditions

Question 17

A patient with chronic bronchitis and emphysema is most likely to be diagnosed with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the movement of oxygen during internal respiration?

Accepted Answer

From tissue capillary blood into tissue cells

Question 19

Which of the following is a life-threatening upper respiratory tract disorder caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottitis

Question 20

A patient is unable to speak after removal of the larynx due to cancer. Which alternative method may be used to restore speech?

Accepted Answer

Esophageal speech

The Respiratory System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Considerations

Study Guide - Practice Questions