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In a patient with pulmonary edema, which of the following best explains the mechanism of impaired gas exchange?

A.

Fluid accumulation in alveoli

B.

Increased alveolar surface tension

C.

Enhanced alveolar ventilation

D.

Decreased alveolar capillary permeability

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Fluid accumulation in alveoli: Pulmonary edema involves fluid leaking into the air sacs (alveoli). This creates a physical barrier that oxygen must pass through to reach the blood, severely impairing gas exchange.

B. Increased alveolar surface tension: While surfactant may be diluted, the primary cause of the gas exchange failure is the presence of the fluid itself.

C. Enhanced alveolar ventilation: Ventilation is severely decreased because the alveoli are filled with fluid instead of air.

D. Decreased alveolar capillary permeability: In many types of pulmonary edema (like ARDS), permeability is actually increased, causing the leak.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Vitamin B12: This is the specific vitamin that requires intrinsic factor (produced in the stomach) for absorption in the ileum.

B. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is synthesized by gut bacteria and absorbed with fats.

C. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is water-soluble and does not require intrinsic factor.

D. Vitamin A: Vitamin A is fat-soluble and does not require intrinsic factor.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Administering sodium bicarbonate: This is used for metabolic acidosis. In respiratory acidosis due to gas exchange issues, the priority is to fix the ventilation problem.

B. Restricting fluid intake: This does not directly address gas exchange or pH balance in an acute respiratory setting.

C. Increasing oxygen supplementation: The primary goal for impaired gas exchange is to improve oxygenation and facilitate the removal of CO2.

D. Administering bronchodilators: While helpful if the cause is asthma or COPD, it is not as broad or immediate a priority for general "impaired gas exchange" as ensuring oxygen delivery.

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