19. Respiratory Emergencies Flashcards
Exhalation
A passive process in which the intercostal (Rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax, causing the chest cavity to decrease in size and air to flow out the lungs; also call expiration.
Inhalation
An active process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphragm contract, expanding the size of the chest cavity and causing air to flow into the lungs; another term for inspiration.
broncho-constriction
the contraction of smooth muscle that lines the bronchial passages that result in a decreased internal diameter to the airway and increased resistance to airflow.
Expiration
Same thing as expiration
Inspiration
Same thing as inspiration
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
A form of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) consisting of a mask and a means of blowing oxygen or air into the mask to prevent airway collapse or to help alleviate difficulty breathing.