Respiratory Assessment Flashcards
What are the boundaries of the thoracic cage?
Posterior: thoracic vertebrae
Lateral: rib cage
Anterior: sternum
Inferior: diaphragm
Whats in the mediastinum?
Chest organs
Thoracic Cage Musculature
Diaphragm
Innervation: phrenic nerve C2-C4
Intercostals, SCM, Traps, Pec Major/Minor, Serratus Anterior, Scalenes, etc.
Inhalation Mechanics
Diaphragm contracts and becomes fixed.
Lower ribs, sternum, and upper ribs elevate and expand.
Intrathoracic pressure decreases to promote inflow of air.
Exhalation Mechanics
Diaphragm relaxes (no longer fixed) and ascends to resting position.
Lower ribs, sternum, upper ribs return to resting position.
Intrathoracic pressure increases to promote outflow of air.
Normal objective findings…
Respiratory rate: 8-12
Exhalation: 2x long inspiration.
Breathing Mechanics
Upper vs. Lower Chest.
How to view the excursion of the thoracic cage?
Observation or tape measure assessment.
Rib compliance
What is the sniff test used for?
To assess the diaphragm
Dyspnea
Difficulty (uncomfortable breathing)
Dyspnea on exertion
Difficulty breathing with movement or activity
Work of breathing (WOB)
ease or difficulty of breathing
Tachypnea
increased respiratory rate
Bradypnea
decreased respiratory rate
Apnea
Absent respiration
