ASESSMENT OF THE BREASTS & LYMPHATIC SYSTEM Flashcards
What is the thorax?
Portion of the body extending from the base of the neck superiorly to the level of the diaphragm inferiorly.
What does the thoracic cavity contain?
Contains the respiratory components, consisting of the mediastinum and the lungs.
What is the mediastinum?
The central area containing the trachea, bronchi, esophagus, heart, and great vessels.
What structures are contained within the thoracic cage?
- 12 Ribs
- 12 Vertebrae
What is dead space in the respiratory system?
No gas exchange is happening in the trachea and bronchi.
Where does gas exchange occur?
Inside the lungs and the alveoli.
At what anatomical landmark does the trachea begin?
At the cricoid cartilage.
What is the composition of the trachea?
Composed of hyaline cartilage that helps maintain shape and prevent collapse during respiration.
How do the right and left bronchi differ?
- Right bronchi is shorter
- Left bronchi is longer
- Right bronchi is fatter and has a larger diameter
What is the apex of the lungs?
The peak or top of the lungs found a little bit above the clavicle.
What is the base of the lungs?
The level of the diaphragm.
How many lobes does the right lung have?
3 lobes.
How many lobes does the left lung have?
2 lobes.
Where should the right middle lobe be assessed?
Anteriorly.
What is the extent of lung sounds during assessment?
- Heard anterior until the 6th rib
- Heard laterally until the 8th rib
- Heard posterior until the 10th rib
What happens to the lungs during inspiration?
The lungs extend until the 8th intercostal anteriorly and until the 12th intercostal posteriorly.
How should upper lobes be assessed?
Anteriorly or from the front.
How should lower lobes be assessed?
Posteriorly or from the back.
What are pleural membranes?
Thin double-layered serous membranes.
What is pleuritis?
The inflammation of the pleural membranes resulting in the pleural membranes rubbing together.
What is external respiration?
The mechanical act of breathing, done through expansion of the chest.
What is the primary muscle of inspiration?
The diaphragm.
What occurs during expiration?
Relaxation of intercostal muscles and diaphragm creates positive pressure in the lungs leading to passive outflow of air.
What is dyspnea?
Difficulty of breathing.