Physiology Flashcards

1
Q

white blood cells function?

A

Fight infection

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Red Blood cells

A

Transport Oxygen bound to haemoglobin

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Platelets function?

A

Blood clotting mechanism

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Blood plasma function?

A

Liquid part of the blood. Carries dissolved nutrients and waste products as well as other blood components mentioned above.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q
  1. What systems in our bodies gives us our sense of balance?
A

Sight
Touch
Prioproception

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q
  1. Describe the 5 effects of gas bubbles on your tissues.
A

Produce an immune response
b) Bubble attracts white blood cells and mast cells
c) Protein cells release fatty acids from cell producing fat emboli
d) Mast cells release histamines, which increase blood flow by dilating venules and capillaries, and make endothelium ‘sticky’, which causes white blood cells to stick to blood vessel walls (margination).
e) Margination causes endothelial cells to ‘separate’, leading to leakage of fluid from capillaries, which can also allow gas bubbles to permeate cell walls and enter lymphatic system.
f). Mechanical damage to cells occurs, and injured cells release chemicals that attract platelets, promoting formation of clots.
g). Platelets can attach themselves to bubbles thus creating a larger mass and increasing chances of blockages.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What substance lines the alveoli?

A

surfactant

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is one of the functions of surfactant in the alveoli?

A

To keep tissues moist,

allow gaseous exchange

to even out surface tension to maintain shape

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What gas plays the major role in the control of breathing?

A

co2

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

How does the body detect Co2

A

Chemoreceptors in the carotid arteries and aortic arch

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q
  1. List 3 of the most important ‘systems’ in our bodies that are affected by diving.
A

Circulatory system;

Pulmonary system;

Vestibular system

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q
  1. List two major causes of Hypercapnia (CO2 build up) for a scuba diver
A

Skip breathing; Tight equipment, Poorly performing regulator

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q
  1. Carbon dioxide toxicity predisposes the diver to two other diving ailments – what are they?
A

: DCI; Narcosis; Hypothermia; O2 toxicity. NB: Don’t accept ‘Headache’. Not diving specific.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q
  1. Define respiratory dead-space.
A

That section of the airway that does not take part in gas exchange. Can include airway ‘extensions’ such as snorkels.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q
  1. List 4 causes of lack of oxygen to the body
A

Need any four diving illnesses, or anything else that might prevent breathing such as equipment failure, near drowning, etc!

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q
  1. List 2 causes of saltwater aspiration syndrome
    NEED TWO OF:
A

Hole in exhaust diaphragm of regulator; hole in mouthpiece of regulator; improper breathing technique, or snorkelling in windy weather where spume/spray is being lifted off water surface so it can be inhaled.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q
  1. List 4 signs and/or symptoms of salt water aspiration syndrome?

NEED FOUR OF:

A

Shortness of breath
Coughing
pain behind breastbone
uncontrollable shivering
hot and cold flushes, fever
loss of appetite
nausea
vomiting

Also rarely, bronchiospasm where patient appears to have asthma or an allergic reaction restricting respiration

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q
  1. Why is it important to hospitalise an apparently recovered victim of near drowning?
A

Because of the potential for complications (blood chemistry changes/lung complications), which can lead to difficulty breathing/unconsciousness at a later stage after the event.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Pneumothorax location and symptoms derived from it

A

in chest cavity

chest pain, short breath, difficulty breathing, cyanosis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

subcutaneous emphysema?

List symptoms

A

under ther skin

Crackling sensation, voice changes, fullness of throat, deviated trachea, shortness of breath

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Mediastinal emphysema

A

Air escaping from lungs as part of ascending too fast

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q
A

Middle of chest (usually below sternum)

Heart irregularities, low blood pressure, pain behind breastbone, cyanosis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Air embolism?

Symptoms?

A

Arterial circulation (being blocked by bubbles)

Sudden unconsciousness, confusion, visual disturbances, convulsions, pink frothy sputum, signs of shock and other CNS symptoms

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q
  1. List the appropriate first aid for pulmonary barotrauma.
A

DRABC
Provide 100% O2
Treat for shock:
Lay patient down flat; Reassure; Protect from elements or further exposure; monitor conscious state
Seek medical aid as soon as possible
If conscious:
Ascertain relevant details regarding the dive
e.g. depth/time, ascent rate
controlled or not, equipment faults, previous activities, buddy comments etc.
If unconscious:
Patient should be postured laying flat or left lateral (coma position)
If on-site recompression is available, this should be utilised where appropriate
Arrange transport for further medical attention
Preferably where recompression
facilities are available.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
26. List the 4 major components of blood.
(a) Red blood cells (erythrocytes) (b) White blood cells (leucocytes) (c) Platelets (d) Plasma
26
29. (a) List 2 major properties of arteries. NEED TWO OF:
Carry oxygenated blood from the heart (except pulmonary artery) High pressure vessels Have thick elastic muscular walls
27
List 2 major properties of veins. NEED TWO OF
Generally carry deoxygenated blood to the heart (except pulmonary vein); Thin walled and less elastic than arteries Low pressure Have valves Generally closer to surface of skin than arteries
28
List 2 major properties of capillaries. NEED TWO OF:
Very small (0.2mm diameter); Act as a reservoir of blood (contain 1/6 of total circulating blood volume) Site of diffusion/gas exchange Capable of vasodilation/vasoconstriction
29
32. Which artery carries deoxygenated blood
Pulmonary artery
30
carotid artery is located
Neck
31
27. What is the primary O2 transport mechanism in our circulatory system
O2 molecules bonded to haemoglobin
32
Brachial artery located
upper arm
33
Femoral artery located?
Thigh
34
Aorta located?
Chest
35
Tachycardia?
elevated heart rate
36
Bradycardia?
Decreased heart rate
37
Oxyhaemoglobin?
Haemoglobin bonded with O2 molecule
38
define shock
lack of effective circulating blood volume
39
36. List 4 major signs and/or symptoms of shock.
Decreased conscious level Pale skin / cyanosis Shivering (may be uncontrollable) Cold sweaty skin Weak ‘thready’ pulse
40
37. Give 2 factors that may increase the severity of shock.
Unchecked blood loss Not ensuring thermal comfort of patient Not offering reassurance Telling patient they look terrible! Handling patient roughly
41
38. What is carboxyhaemoglobin?
Haemoglobin bonded with CO molecule
42
39. Why may the effects of carbon monoxide not be as readily noticeable at depth
Increased ambient pressure means more O2 can be carried in blood plasma, and oxygen partial pressure is also increased. Both can mask symptoms of CO poisoning
42
40. What is the major cause of carotid sinus syndrome in divers?
Tight suit hood putting pressure on baroreceptors in neck.
42
41. As the pressure on a given amount of gas increases, so the volume:
decreases
43
42. What is the pressure at a depth of 15m in seawater?
2.5ATA
43
43. The greatest volume change of a gas occurs between depths of:
0-10M
43
44. When should you start to clear your ears?
IMMEDIATLY
44
describe anatomy and function of the middle ear
Middle ear: Air-filled cavity in the temporal bone, separated from the external ear by the eardrum. Eustachian tube: Connects the middle ear to the throat/nasopharynx, equalizing air pressure. Ossicles: Three linked, movable bones in the middle ear. Hammer (malleus): Joins the inside of the eardrum. Anvil (incus): Middle bone, connecting the hammer and stirrup. Stirrup (stapes): Connects to the anvil and fills the oval window. Oval window: Opening leading to the inner ear.
45
describe anatomy and function of the inner ear
Maze of fluid-filled tubes in the temporal bone. Bony labyrinth: Two major sections: cochlea (hearing) and semicircular canals (balance). Oval window and round window: Membrane-covered outlets connecting the inner ear to the air-filled middle ear.
46
46. List the first aid for middle ear barotrauma
DRABC Observe and assess signs and symptoms Cover ear/s with hand/s and hold on to something until dizziness passes Surface Dry and cover ear Do not attempt to equalise Do not place anything in ear canal Seek expert medical advice immediately Not essential that they have ‘give 100% O2’ here, but still wouldn’t hurt.
47
47. What is the cause of an inner ear barotrauma?
Over-forceful equalisation (especially valsalva)
48
48. List five ways a diver can avoid ear barotrauma
Equalise as often as possible during descent Don’t dive with cold or flu congestion Slow descent Feet first descent Ensure hood allows water to get into external ear
49
49. If you were having difficulty clearing your ears list three techniques you could employ.
Ascend to a shallower depth Move jaw/’yawn’ Gentle valsalva – pinch nostrils closed and blow gently Block one nostril and gently blow out other nostril (on affected side)
50
45. Describe the anatomy and function of the ear (outer
The external ear (or pinna) serves to protect the tympanic membrane (eardrum), as well to collect and direct sound waves through the ear canal to the eardrum
51
List three symptoms that failure to equalise the air space in the middle ear would produce
Pain Feeling of ‘fullness’ in the ear Impaired hearing Tinnitus Dizziness Nausea Bleeding from ear
52
51. At what depth would a diver breathing air reasonably expect to be affected by nitrogen narcosis?
27-30m
53
52. List four factors that are likely to predispose a diver to nitrogen narcosis (apart from going deeper).
Elevated CO2 levels Rapid descent Hard work at depth Cold water Poor visibility Inexperience Hangover Alcohol Drugs
54
53. How do you cure nitrogen narcosis?
ascend to shallower water
55
54. What is chronic oxygen toxicity and how is it caused?
Long term (several hours) exposure to elevated levels of O2 at >0.6 ATA concentration. Can result in irritation to or breakdown of lung tissue.
56
55. What is acute oxygen toxicity and how is caused?
Short term exposure to elevated levels of O2 at >1.6 ATA concentration. Characterised by CVENTID signs and symptoms.
57
57. Define hyperventilation.
more than 3 breaths before a breath - hold dive
57
56. What is the treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning
DRABC; Give 100% O2; Seek medical aid urgently O2 recompression treatment blood transfusion may be required in serious cases
58
58. List five causes of carbon monoxide poisoning.
External contamination of air going into HP compressor (e.g. filling tanks during peak traffic periods) External contamination of air going into LP compressor (e.g. incorrectly placed intake, or inadequate intake length) Poor compressor maintenance causing oil flashing (worn piston rings) Use of incorrect oil in compressor causing oil flashing Inadequate filtration allowing contaminants to enter compressor and causing oil flashing Direct inhalation of exhaust fumes
59
Which system is primarily responsible for the transport of venom within the body?
lymphatic
60
What is the major factor involved in transport of venom in lymphatic system?
movement
61
List 2 marine animals where pressure immobilisation technique can be used?
blue ring octopus sea snake cone shell box jelly
62
list 2 animals where you should not use the immobilisation technique?
stonefish stingray other fish spine injury lacerations
62
Briefly describe the pressure immobilisation technique.
Apply a broad crepe pressure bandage over the bite site as soon as possible, bandaging upwards from the lower portion of the bitten or stung limb to as high as possible up the limb. Splint the limb, then keep the patient still.
63
What morphological feature do cnidarians (sea jellies, corals, and anemones) possess as a means of immobilising prey?
Nematocysts
64
What specific first aid procedure is recommended for cnidarian envenomation?
BOX JELLYFISH: DRABC; Apply vinegar (before removing tentacles); Seek medical aid; Scrape off any tentacles adhering to the skin; Apply pressure immobilisation bandage OTHER JELLYFISH: Scrape off any tentacles adhering to the skin; apply ice; seek medical advice if required, and give analgesics as directed.
65
What is the primary consideration in the first aid of a blue ringed octopus bite?
DRABC; Seek medical aid; apply pressure immobilisation bandage; maintain EAR until help arrives.
65
What effect may the blue ringed octopus toxin have on a victim?
paralysis
66
63. List the recommended first aid procedure for stonefish envenomation
DRABCD; 100% O2 Immerse puncture site in water as hot as the patient can stand. Seek medical aid asap
67
64. How is an open airway maintained in an unconscious person
Assuming an unconscious breathing patient, check airway and lay in left lateral (recovery) position.
68
65. List the checks one can make to ensure the patient is breathing
(a) Look for rise and fall of chest (b) Listen for sound of breathing (c) Feel for rise and fall of chest, or breath on your ear.
69
66. How would you deal with the following problems jaw not opening?
mouth to nose ventilation
70
66. How would you deal with the following problems Airway obstruction:
Reach into mouth and clear if possible; back slaps then chest thrusts if still present; if these don’t clear it then try and ventilate around the obstruction (using 100% O2 if possible). Seek medical aid urgently.
71
How would you deal with the following problems Vomiting:
roll onto side clear with finger in sweep motion
72
how would you deal with a patient with air in their stomach?
check your cpr technique, then continue
73
list 4 signs of cardiac arrest?
no pulse cyanosis (blue skin) crushing chest pain unconciousness
74
69. What important information must be passed on to anyone who is sent for help?
Location of emergency Nature of emergency No. of persons affected No. of persons attending, and their qualifications Ask person to find out how long ambulance will be, and tell them to come back and assist you after the call.
75
68. When administering CPR to an adult the ratios and rates are:
(a) One operator: 2 breaths to 30 compressions at at least 5 cycles every 2 minutes. (b) Two operators: 2 breaths to 30 compressions at at least 5 cycles every 2 minutes.
75
70. List 4 signs of recovery after successful CPR
Pulse returns Breathing returns Colour improves Become responsive / regain consciousness
76
71. List 4 important constituents that a diver’s first aid kit must have
Schools Surf lifesaving facilities Swimming pools Veterinary clinics Old people’s homes Auto workshops Engineering workshops
77
73. List 2 sources of warm water for therapy use
Engine coolant water Thermos Allow anything else you think is practical/reasonably possible.
78
list sign and symptoms, and first aid to a patient in this temp range: <37C to 36C
Shivering, feeling cold; complaining of cold; rubbing arms; hugging body; goosebumps DRABCD; Remove from exposure; remove wet clothing and put on dry clothing; get out of wind/rain; warm sweet drinks/food
79
list sign and symptoms, and first aid to a patient in this temp range: 35C to 34C
Controllable but strong shivering; cyanosis; poor coordination; slurred speech; responsive, but ‘slower than normal’! DRABCD; Remove from exposure; remove wet clothing and put on dry clothing; get out of wind/rain; warm sweet drinks/food if patient can swallow and is clear-headed; gentle rewarming (body heat/car heater etc)
80
75. List 4 ways of preventing hypothermia
Adequate food/snacks and warm drinks before diving and between dives Wear adequate exposure protection Terminate dive as soon as anyone starts to feel cold Remove wet gear as soon as possible after dives; be aware of wind chill
81
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is an acute condition that occurs when the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate.
82
list first aid for heat exhaustion
Remove from heat and cease exercise Cool rapidly – shower, cold bath etc Give cool/cold drinks if patient clear headed and able to swallow easily
83
77. List 4 diving ailments where the use of pure oxygen would be beneficial
CAGE - Convulsions, Amnesia, Gait disturbance, and Emotional instability DCI CO poisoning Near drowning
84
78. List 2 ways in which oxygen therapy can be applied
non rebreather mask demand inhalation valve pocket mask
85
SEVERE HYPOTHERMIA <30C
Progressive loss of consciousness; cardiac arrhythmias; pupils fixed and dilated; may appear dead DRABCD; Remove from exposure; remove wet clothing; handle extremely gently; rewarm with body to body contact or body core re-warmer only; Seek medical aid – transport to hospital IF advised.
86
79. List 2 precautions that must be taken when using oxygen
ensure proper ventialtion ensure away from naked flames
87
80. In the event of a workplace diving accident, to whom should accident reports be sent?
diving officer ohs unit insurance office workplace standards office hr
88
describe inflammation
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection. It serves to protect the body by increasing blood flow to the area, which brings immune cells and nutrients to the affected tissues. Signs of inflammation include redness, heat, swelling, and pain. It's essentially the body's way of trying to heal itself.
89
describe loss of blood plasma
When there's a loss of blood plasma, such as in cases of severe burns or injury, the body responds by moving fluid from the cells and tissues into the bloodstream to maintain blood volume and pressure. The kidneys also conserve water and salt to help maintain blood volume. However, excessive loss of plasma can lead to shock, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
90
describe fever
Fever is a controlled increase in the body's normal temperature set-point, in response to infection or other conditions. It is driven by chemicals called pyrogens, which are either produced by the body or by invading organisms. The increase in body temperature can help fight infections by speeding up the body's metabolism and stimulating the immune response. The body may also make the environment less favorable for bacteria or viruses to replicate. It is essentially a defense mechanism that helps the body fight off infections or diseases.
91
define laryngeal spasm?
closing of vocal chords when in contact w water, can effect divers when diving. can cause drowning