MODULE 2

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a key component for optimal gas exchange?
A. Adequate ventilation
B. Effective alveolar-capillary diffusion
C. Sufficient pulmonary perfusion
D. High airway resistance

Answer 1

D. High airway resistance

Optimal gas exchange requires efficient ventilation, diffusion, and perfusion. High airway resistance impairs airflow, reducing oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal.

Question 2

How does asthma impair gas exchange?
A. By increasing alveolar surface area
B. By causing bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation
C. By improving mucociliary clearance
D. By decreasing lung compliance

Answer 2

B. By causing bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation

Explanation: Asthma leads to airway narrowing due to inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production, impairing oxygenation and ventilation.

Question 3

Which of the following is a common trigger of asthma?
A. Hyperoxia
B. Cold air
C. Increased atmospheric pressure
D. Alkalosis

Answer 3

Answer: B. Cold air

Explanation: Cold air can cause bronchospasm and airway inflammation, triggering asthma symptoms. Other common triggers include allergens, exercise, and respiratory infections.

Question 4

Which immune cells play a key role in the pathogenesis of asthma?
A. Neutrophils
B. T lymphocytes and eosinophils
C. Red blood cells
D. Osteoclasts

Answer 4

B. T lymphocytes and eosinophils

Explanation: Asthma is an inflammatory disease driven by T lymphocytes and eosinophils, which release inflammatory mediators leading to airway hyperresponsiveness and obstruction.

Question 5

Which of the following is a hallmark clinical manifestation of asthma?
A. Bradypnea
B. Inspiratory stridor
C. Wheezing
D. Cyanosis as an early symptom

Answer 5

C. Wheezing

Explanation: Wheezing results from airway narrowing due to bronchospasm and inflammation. Severe cases may lead to silent chest, indicating respiratory failure.

Question 6

What is the primary pathophysiological process in respiratory failure?
A. Excess oxygen delivery
B. Impaired gas exchange leading to hypoxemia and/or hypercapnia
C. Increased airway resistance with normal gas exchange
D. Alveolar hyperinflation with normal oxygenation

Answer 6

B. Impaired gas exchange leading to hypoxemia and/or hypercapnia

Explanation: Respiratory failure occurs when gas exchange is inadequate, resulting in low oxygen (hypoxemia) or high carbon dioxide (hypercapnia), requiring urgent intervention.

Question 7

How can asthma progress to respiratory failure?
A. By decreasing airway inflammation
B. By improving mucociliary clearance
C. By severe bronchoconstriction, mucus plugging, and fatigue of respiratory muscles
D. By increasing alveolar ventilation

Answer 7

C. By severe bronchoconstriction, mucus plugging, and fatigue of respiratory muscles

Explanation: In life-threatening asthma, airway obstruction worsens, leading to hypercapnia, respiratory muscle fatigue, and eventual respiratory failure.

Question 8

Which arterial blood gas (ABG) finding suggests impending respiratory failure in asthma?
A. pH 7.45, PaCO₂ 35 mmHg, PaO₂ 95 mmHg
B. pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 55 mmHg, PaO₂ 60 mmHg
C. pH 7.50, PaCO₂ 30 mmHg, PaO₂ 100 mmHg
D. pH 7.40, PaCO₂ 40 mmHg, PaO₂ 90 mmHg

Answer 8

B. pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 55 mmHg, PaO₂ 60 mmHg

Explanation: Rising PaCO₂ and worsening hypoxemia indicate respiratory failure due to fatigue and ineffective ventilation in severe asthma exacerbations.

Question 9

What is the first-line pharmacological treatment for severe asthma exacerbation?
A. Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs)
B. Inhaled corticosteroids
C. Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) such as salbutamol
D. Antihistamines

Answer 9

C. Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) such as salbutamol

Explanation: SABAs (e.g., salbutamol) are the first-line treatment for acute asthma exacerbations as they rapidly relax bronchial smooth muscles, improving airflow.

Question 10

Which nursing intervention is the highest priority in managing life-threatening asthma?
A. Encouraging deep breathing exercises
B. Administering oxygen and bronchodilators
C. Providing oral fluids
D. Encouraging rest and sleep

Answer 10

B. Administering oxygen and bronchodilators

Explanation: In life-threatening asthma, oxygen therapy and rapid bronchodilation with SABAs and corticosteroids are critical to prevent respiratory failure.