A client with end stage emphysema is experiencing poor gas exchange. Which respiratory structure is associated with the pathophysiological processes in emphysema?
Bronchioles.
Trachea.
Bronchi.
Alveoli.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Bronchioles:
Bronchioles are small airways in the lungs that lack cartilage and are primarily responsible for conducting air to the alveoli. While changes in bronchioles, such as bronchoconstriction or bronchiolitis, can contribute to airflow limitation in conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis, they are not primarily associated with the pathophysiological processes of emphysema.
B) Trachea:
The trachea, or windpipe, is the large airway that connects the larynx to the bronchi. It serves as a conduit for air movement into and out of the lungs but is not directly involved in gas exchange. Changes in the trachea are not typically associated with the pathophysiological processes of emphysema.
C) Bronchi:
Bronchi are larger airways in the lungs that branch off from the trachea and further divide into bronchioles. While chronic bronchitis, a common comorbidity of emphysema in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), primarily affects the bronchi, it is not the primary structure associated with the pathophysiological processes of emphysema.
D) Alveoli:
Correct. Emphysema is a type of COPD characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls, leading to enlarged airspaces and loss of lung elasticity. This structural damage results in decreased surface area for gas exchange and impaired diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide across the alveolar-capillary membrane. Alveolar destruction in emphysema leads to poor gas exchange and contributes to the characteristic symptoms of dyspnea, hypoxemia, and hypercapnia in affected individuals. Therefore, the alveoli are directly associated with the pathophysiological processes of emphysema
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide pressure over the biopsy site:
Positioning the client on the right side after a liver biopsy is aimed at providing pressure over the biopsy site. This pressure helps in promoting hemostasis by compressing the blood vessels at the biopsy site, thus reducing the risk of bleeding or hematoma formation. The liver is located on the right side of the body, so positioning the client on the right side applies pressure directly over the liver, aiding in the prevention of bleeding complications.
B. Keep the client from aspirating:
Positioning the client on the right side after a liver biopsy is not primarily aimed at preventing aspiration. Aspiration precautions are typically implemented during procedures where there is a risk of regurgitation or vomiting, such as during anesthesia induction or recovery, rather than specifically after a liver biopsy.
C. Lessen the amount of post-procedure pain:
While positioning can play a role in managing post-procedure pain, the primary reason for positioning the client on the right side after a liver biopsy is to provide pressure over the biopsy site to promote hemostasis. Pain management strategies such as administering analgesics may be utilized to address any discomfort experienced by the client post-procedure.
D. Facilitate pulmonary expansion:
Positioning the client on the right side after a liver biopsy does not directly facilitate pulmonary expansion. Facilitating pulmonary expansion is typically achieved through interventions such as deep breathing exercises, incentive spirometry, and early ambulation rather than positioning alone.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Myocardial infarction one year ago:
A myocardial infarction (MI) that occurred one year ago is not directly related to the current acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While a history of MI may have implications for the client's overall cardiovascular health and management, it is not the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results.
B. Occasional use of antacids:
Occasional use of antacids is unlikely to cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. Antacids primarily work by neutralizing gastric acid and are not typically associated with significant alterations in acid-base status, especially when used intermittently.
C. Chronic renal insufficiency:
Chronic renal insufficiency is the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results. A low hemoglobin level suggests anemia, which can occur in chronic kidney disease due to decreased erythropoietin production. An elevated creatinine clearance indicates impaired kidney function, as the kidneys are clearing creatinine at a faster rate than normal. Decreased urine specific gravity suggests the kidneys' inability to concentrate urine properly, which is a common finding in renal insufficiency. Renal insufficiency can lead to metabolic acidosis due to the kidneys' decreased ability to excrete acid and regulate bicarbonate levels.
D. Shortness of breath with exertion:
Shortness of breath with exertion, a symptom commonly seen in COPD exacerbations, is unlikely to directly cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While respiratory distress can lead to respiratory acidosis, which is characterized by elevated carbon dioxide levels and decreased pH, the laboratory results indicate metabolic rather than respiratory acidosis.
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