Pulmonary blood flow and perfusion Flashcards
(14 cards)
How does blood flow from the heart to the lungs?
Blood flows from the heart to the lungs via the pulmonary artery, which branches into smaller arteries, arterioles, and finally capillaries.
Where does more gas exchange take place in the lungs?
More gas exchange takes place between the lung bases and the circulatory system than between the apices and the circulatory system.
What type of lung problems impair ventilation more, those affecting the bases or the apices?
Problems in the bases of the lungs impair ventilation more than do problems affecting the apices.
What is the state of pulmonary capillaries?
The pulmonary capillaries are narrow and allow red blood cells to pass through only in single file.
What happens to people with chronic lung disease and chronic hypoxia over time?
They often generate a surplus of red blood cells, making their blood thick.
What condition is characterized by viscous blood?
Polycythemia.
What strain can thick blood place on the body?
It can place a strain on the right side of the heart.
What effect does COPD have on alveoli and capillaries?
When the alveoli are distended by COPD, they push against the capillary bed, further narrowing the capillaries and straining the right side of the heart.
What is cor pulmonale?
Right-sided heart failure that occurs because of chronic lung disease.
What does perfusion refer to in the respiratory system?
The circulatory component of the respiratory system.
What is the consequence of blood not flowing consistently through the pulmonary vessels?
Good ventilation and diffusion are wasted, as an adequate supply of oxygen cannot come into contact with the blood.
What can a large pulmonary embolus do?
It can block blood flow to an entire lung.
What is the impact of anemia on oxygen transport?
Patients who are anemic have an impaired ability to transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Fill in the blank: Patients who are _______ have low blood volume.
hypovolemic
