Unit 4 Respiratory System

Question 1

Thoracentesis

Answer 1

Removal of fluid from the pleural cavity

Question 2

Tracheostomy

Answer 2

Incision with entry into the thorax

Question 3

Subcutaneous Emphysema

Answer 3

Accumulation of air or gas under the skin, which feels like bubble wrap on palpation.

Question 4

Crepitus

Answer 4

Also called subcutaneous emphysema

Can occur when air leaks into the tissue around chest tubes. Could be a sign of malfunctions drainage system.

Question 5

Atelectasis

Answer 5

Is an incomplete expansion, or collapse of alveoli. It may occur from compression of the lungs.

Question 6

Pneumothorax and Hemothorax

Answer 6

Often occur as a result of a blunt non penetrating or penetrating injury to the chest wall.

Question 7

Pulmonary Function Test

Answer 7

Test that shows how the lungs are working. It measures lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange.

Question 8

Closed and Open Pneumothorax

Answer 8

It is classified as either open or closed due to the causative mechanism. Open results from a penetrating thoracic injury that permits entry of air into the chest. Closed is the accumulation of air originating from the respiratory system within the pleural space.

Question 9

Tension Pneumothorax

Answer 9

A life threatening condition that develops when air is trapped in the pleural cavity under positive pressure, displacing mediastinal structures and compromising cardiopulmonary function.

Question 10

Pulmonary Embolus

Answer 10

A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs. These are caused by blood clots that travel from the legs to the lungs.