PCP Expansion - Respiratory (A&P) Flashcards
What type of cell generates surfactant
Type II Pneumocytes
What does surfactant do?
Decreases surface tension to keep the alveoli open
CO2/O2 are carried across the blood gas barrier by what mechanism
Diffusion
What three groups of people are at risk of improper mucociliary clearance?
- Smokers
- Individuals with lung disease
- Exposure to pollutants and hazardous materials
What substances kills bacteria in the nasal pharynx?
Lysozymes
Why are smokers at risk of improper mucociliary clearance?
Smoking can increase the risk of impaired cilia, affecting cilia’s ability to clear debris from the lungs
Why are individuals with lung disease at risk of improper mucociliary clearance?
Individuals with lung diseases could encounter respiratory distress from dysfunctional cilia
Why does exposure to pollutants and hazmat materials increase risk of improper mucociliary clearance?
Cilia may not work effectively to eliminate harmful particles from exposure to pollutants and hazardous materials
What are the two parts of the pleura?
- Visceral (inner layer of the pleura)
- Parietal (outer layer of the pleura)
What fluid is between the visceral and parietal pleura?
Pleural fluid
Why is pleural fluid produced in the parietal pleura?
In the parietal pleura
What is the purpose of pleural fluid?
Pleural fluid reduces friction between the layers of the pleura for smooth movement during breathing, allowing for expansion and contraction of the lungs
If there is a decrease in surfactant, what is an action a Paramedic can do to keep the alveoli open?
Apply PEEP
How many alveoli are in the lungs?
Around 400-600 million
What four neurological groups control respiration?
- Ventral Respiratory Group
- Dorsal Respiratory Group
- Pneumotaxic Center
- Apneustic Center
What is the function of the Ventral Respiratory Group?
Primary responsible for forced inspiration and exhalation, particularly in situations where deeper breaths are needed
What is the function of the Dorsal Respiratory Group?
Neurons in the DRG stimulate the intercostal muscles and diaphragm to contract, promoting inhalation. These muscles are essential for breathing and are innervated by specific nerve fibers
What is the function of the Pneumotaxic Center?
Balances the respiratory process by inhibiting the DRG, allowing for relaxation and exhalation after inhalation
What is the function of the Apneustic Center?
Collaborates with the DRG to fine-tune the depth of inspiration, regulating how deeply one breathes
What three factors stimulate respiration?
- pH and Acidity
- Low oxygen
- Carbon Dioxide
Why does pH and acidity stimulate respiration?
Carbon dioxide levels in the blood influence the control of breathing, and this regulation is tied to the blood’s pH and acidity