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NSG 170 > Gas Exchange > Flashcards

Gas Exchange Flashcards

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1
Q

What is gas exchange?

A

The biological process where oxygen is delivered to cells and carbon dioxide is removed, essential for cellular respiration.

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2
Q

Where does gas exchange primarily occur?

A

In the alveoli of the lungs.

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3
Q

What is the function of surfactant in gas exchange?

A

Reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse and aiding in gas exchange.

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4
Q

What does compliance refer to in the context of gas exchange?

A

The lung’s ability to stretch and expand; decreased compliance can hinder gas exchange.

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5
Q

What is the normal range for arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2)?

A

Normal levels are above 95%.

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6
Q

What is hypercarbia?

A

Elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood (PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg), indicating respiratory failure.

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7
Q

What are common causes of impaired gas exchange?

A
  • Ineffective ventilation
  • Reduced capacity for gas transportation
  • Inadequate perfusion
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8
Q

What is anemia?

A

A deficiency in the number of erythrocytes (RBCs), quantity of hemoglobin, or volume of packed RBCs (hematocrit).

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9
Q

What are the types of anemia?

A
  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Megaloblastic anemia
  • Anemia of chronic disease
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10
Q

What causes iron-deficiency anemia?

A
  • Inadequate dietary intake
  • Malabsorption
  • Chronic blood loss
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11
Q

What are the clinical manifestations of severe anemia?

A
  • Pale
  • Exhausted
  • Tachycardic
  • Dyspnea at rest
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12
Q

What role do folic acid and cobalamin play in anemia?

A

Essential for RBC production; deficiencies can lead to specific types of anemia.

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13
Q

What is the normal range for arterial blood gases (ABGs)?

A
  • pH 7.35-7.45
  • PaCO2 35-45 mm Hg
  • PaO2 80-100 mm Hg
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14
Q

What is pernicious anemia?

A

Caused by the absence of intrinsic factor, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency.

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15
Q

What are the symptoms of megaloblastic anemia?

A

Smooth, beefy red tongue without neurological issues.

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16
Q

What dietary changes are recommended for iron-deficiency anemia?

A

Increase iron-rich foods and consider iron supplementation.

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17
Q

What is a common complication of sickle cell disease?

A

Vasoocclusive crisis due to sickled cells obstructing blood flow.

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18
Q

What triggers a sickle cell crisis?

Study These Flashcards
A
  • Low oxygen levels
  • Dehydration
  • Infections
  • Stress
19
Q

What is asthma?

Study These Flashcards
A

A chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways leading to bronchoconstriction and airflow limitation.

20
Q

What are common symptoms of asthma?

Study These Flashcards
A
  • Wheezing
  • Breathlessness
  • Chest tightness
  • Cough
21
Q

What is status asthmaticus?

Study These Flashcards
A

A severe, life-threatening asthma attack unresponsive to usual treatments.

22
Q

What are the diagnostic studies for asthma?

Study These Flashcards
A
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Peak flow measurement
  • Chest X-ray
23
Q

What is the hygiene hypothesis in relation to asthma?

Study These Flashcards
A

Reduced exposure to infections in early life may increase asthma risk.

24
Q

What are the common factors causing airway obstruction in asthma?

Study These Flashcards
A
  • Allergens
  • Irritants
  • Respiratory infections
  • Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
25
What is the inspiration-expiration ratio during severe asthma attacks?
May change to 1:2 or even 1:4.
26
What is the role of patient education in asthma management?
Essential for recognizing early signs of an asthma episode and avoiding triggers.
27
What are the signs of hypoxemia in asthma patients?
* Increased heart rate * Cyanosis * Altered mental status
28
What is a risk associated with severe asthma attacks?
Respiratory failure ## Footnote As severity increases, the work of breathing increases, leading to fatigue and potential respiratory arrest.
29
What can hypercapnia and hypoxemia develop into during severe asthma?
Worsening patient condition ## Footnote Elevated carbon dioxide levels and low oxygen levels can exacerbate the situation.
30
What can long-term uncontrolled asthma lead to?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and irreversible lung damage ## Footnote Long-term effects highlight the importance of management.
31
What is essential for managing asthma and preventing complications?
Regular monitoring and management ## Footnote These practices maintain quality of life.
32
What are the key diagnostic approaches for asthma?
* Detailed history and physical examination * Chest X-rays * Arterial blood gases (ABGs) * Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) * Peak flow monitoring * Asthma Control Test (ACT) ## Footnote These approaches help assess the severity and diagnose asthma.
33
How is asthma severity classified?
Four categories: intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, and severe persistent ## Footnote This classification guides treatment options.
34
What is the first-line treatment for acute asthma symptoms?
Short-acting beta agonists (SABAs) ## Footnote These medications provide immediate relief of bronchospasm.
35
What are inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) used for in asthma management?
Suppress inflammatory responses and reduce bronchial hyperresponsiveness ## Footnote Regular use can improve lung function.
36
What are leukotriene modifiers used for?
Prophylactic and maintenance therapy to prevent asthma exacerbations ## Footnote They block the action of leukotrienes, reducing inflammation.
37
What is a potential side effect of systemic corticosteroids?
Weight gain and mood swings ## Footnote These side effects necessitate careful tapering.
38
Fill in the blank: The primary pathological process in COPD is _______.
Inflammation ## Footnote This leads to damage of lung tissue and air trapping.
39
What are the four stages of COPD classification?
* Mild * Moderate * Severe * Very severe ## Footnote Staging is based on airflow limitation and symptoms.
40
What is a common complication of COPD?
Cor pulmonale ## Footnote This is right-sided heart failure due to increased pulmonary pressures.
41
What is the role of bronchodilators in COPD management?
Improve airflow and reduce symptoms ## Footnote They are the cornerstone of COPD management.
42
True or False: Home oxygen therapy is only indicated for patients with normal oxygen levels.
False ## Footnote It is indicated for patients with hypoxemia.
43
What psychological issues are common in COPD patients?
Depression and anxiety ## Footnote These mental health issues can significantly affect patient quality of life.
44
What is the focus of palliative care in COPD?
Symptom management and improving quality of life ## Footnote This is crucial for patients with advanced disease.

NSG 170 (3 decks)

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