Conditions that impair lung function

Question 1

What condition can lead to suppressed gas flow due to thoracic injury?

Answer 1

A flail chest

A flail chest occurs when multiple adjacent ribs are fractured, leading to a segment of the chest wall moving independently.

Question 2

What injury can result in gas flow suppression due to the diaphragm?

Answer 2

Diaphragmatic rupture

Diaphragmatic rupture can impair the diaphragm’s ability to facilitate respiration.

Question 3

What physical condition can lead to severe retractions and gas flow suppression?

Answer 3

Severe retractions

Severe retractions indicate significant respiratory distress and can limit airflow.

Question 4

What can fill the abdomen and restrict gas flow?

Answer 4

An abdomen full of air or blood

Accumulation of air (pneumoperitoneum) or blood (hemoperitoneum) can impede normal respiratory mechanics.

Question 5

What is a possible cause of gas flow suppression related to binding?

Answer 5

Abdominal or chest binding

This may occur during spinal motion restriction to stabilize the patient.

Question 6

What is a general factor that can restrict respiration?

Answer 6

Anything else that restricts the pressure changes that facilitate respiration

This includes various conditions that limit lung expansion and contraction.

Question 7

What syndrome is characterized by respiratory compromise due to morbid obesity?

Answer 7

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Also known as Pickwickian syndrome, it results in inadequate ventilation and consequent hypoxemia.