Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the nasal turbinates in the upper respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

They slow and swirl incoming air to warm and moisten it before it reaches the lungs.

Question 2

A patient presents with a collapsed right lower lobe on a chest x-ray. Which term best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

Atelectasis

Question 3

Which process is defined as the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and the blood?

Accepted Answer

External respiration

Question 4

During inhalation, which of the following events occurs?

Accepted Answer

The intercostal muscles pull the ribs up and out, enlarging the thoracic cavity.

Question 5

A patient with cystic fibrosis often exhibits cyanosis and clubbing of the fingertips. What is the underlying cause of these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Chronic low oxygen levels in the blood

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the role of surfactant in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

It keeps the alveolar walls from collapsing by reducing surface tension.

Question 7

A pulmonary embolus most commonly causes which of the following physiological effects?

Accepted Answer

Blockage of blood flow to the lung, leading to decreased oxygenation of blood

Question 8

Which laboratory test provides a quick, noninvasive measurement of the percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen?

Accepted Answer

Pulse oximetry

Question 9

A patient is prescribed a metered-dose inhaler for asthma. What is the primary purpose of this device?

Accepted Answer

To deliver a premeasured dose of bronchodilator or corticosteroid directly to the lungs

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of the pleura in the thoracic cavity?

Accepted Answer

It secretes pleural fluid to reduce friction between the lungs and thoracic wall during breathing.

Question 11

Which of the following is the correct sequence of airflow from the nose to the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

Nose → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Bronchioles → Alveoli

Question 12

A patient is being treated with a CPAP machine. What is the primary function of this device?

Accepted Answer

To provide a constant flow of air with gentle positive pressure to keep the upper airway open during sleep

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the process of cellular respiration?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen is used by body cells to generate energy, producing carbon dioxide as a waste product.

Question 14

A patient with tuberculosis is difficult to treat because the causative bacterium has which unique characteristic?

Accepted Answer

It has a waxy external coating, making it resistant to treatment with a single drug.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why the posterior side of the trachea lacks cartilage?

Accepted Answer

To allow the esophagus to expand as food passes through

Question 16

A patient is instructed to use an incentive spirometer after surgery. What is the main goal of this intervention?

Accepted Answer

To encourage deep breathing and prevent atelectasis

Question 17

Which of the following is a direct result of forceful exhalation, such as blowing up a balloon?

Accepted Answer

Contraction of both the intercostal and abdominal muscles, rapidly decreasing thoracic cavity size

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the phrenic nerve in respiration?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates the diaphragm to contract during inhalation.

Question 19

A patient with a permanent tracheostomy tube requires regular care. What is the primary reason for cleansing the area around the tube?

Accepted Answer

To remove mucus and reduce the risk of infection

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the term 'bronchopulmonary'?

Accepted Answer

Pertaining to the bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs

Pulmonology: The Respiratory System – Medical Terminology Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions