Introduction to the Respiratory System Flashcards
What are the main components of the upper respiratory system?
Nose and nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx, and larynx.
What is the function of the nasal cavity?
To trap dust, germs, and allergens; warm and humidify the air.
Why is the mouth considered a secondary air pathway?
It is used during exercise or when the nasal passages are blocked but doesn’t filter or condition air as effectively.
What is the function of the pharynx?
A shared passageway for air and food; connects the nasal cavity to the larynx and mouth to the esophagus.
What does the larynx do?
It allows air into the trachea and houses the vocal cords; the epiglottis closes during swallowing to prevent food entry.
What is the trachea?
A sturdy tube connecting the larynx to the lungs, supported by cartilage rings.
What are bronchi and bronchioles?
Bronchi branch from the trachea into each lung and divide into smaller bronchioles to distribute air.
What happens in the alveoli?
Gas exchange occurs: oxygen moves into the blood, and carbon dioxide moves into alveoli to be exhaled.
What is the pleural cavity?
The space between the lungs and chest wall filled with fluid to reduce friction and keep lungs attached.
How does the diaphragm help in breathing?
Contracts and moves down during inhalation to expand lungs, and relaxes during exhalation to push air out.
What are intercostal muscles?
Muscles between the ribs that help expand and contract the ribcage during breathing.
What does spirometry measure?
It measures the amount and speed of air you can inhale and exhale.
What are FVC and FEV in spirometry?
FVC: total air exhaled after a deep breath; FEV: air exhaled in the first second.
What is pulse oximetry?
A non-invasive test that measures oxygen saturation (SpO₂) in the blood using a fingertip sensor.
What is a normal oxygen saturation level?
Between 95% and 100%.
What does the arterial blood gas (ABG) test measure?
It measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, blood pH, and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻).
Why is the ABG test important?
It provides detailed data on respiratory function and acid-base balance, useful in emergencies.
