Which of the following would slow down gas exchange between the blood and alveolar air?
A decrease in membrane thickness
An increase in alveolar surface area
An increase in membrane thickness
A decrease in nitrogen solubility
An increase in respiratory rate
The Correct Answer is C
A. A decrease in membrane thickness: Thinner respiratory membranes allow gases to diffuse more rapidly between alveolar air and blood. A decrease in thickness enhances gas exchange rather than slowing it.
B. An increase in alveolar surface area: A larger surface area provides more sites for diffusion, improving the efficiency of gas exchange. This change accelerates, rather than impedes, oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer.
C. An increase in membrane thickness: Thickening of the alveolar-capillary membrane, as occurs in conditions like pulmonary fibrosis or edema, increases the diffusion distance. This slows down the movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide between alveoli and blood, reducing gas exchange efficiency.
D. A decrease in nitrogen solubility: Nitrogen is largely inert and not actively exchanged in the lungs. Changes in its solubility have minimal effect on oxygen or carbon dioxide diffusion, so it does not significantly slow gas exchange.
E. An increase in respiratory rate: A higher respiratory rate enhances the ventilation of alveoli and maintains the concentration gradient for diffusion. This actually promotes faster gas exchange rather than slowing it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Pus forms as part of the body’s inflammatory response to infection or tissue injury. Neutrophils arrive first and engulf pathogens, then die off, accumulating at the site. Macrophages follow and continue clearing debris. The mixture of dead neutrophils, macrophages, bacteria, and broken-down tissue creates the thick, often cloudy fluid known as pus.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Brachial:The brachial artery runs through the antecubital fossa of the elbow and is the standard site for auscultating Korotkoff sounds during blood pressure measurement. Its superficial location and direct alignment with the cuff make it ideal for accurate readings.
B. Axillary:The axillary artery is located in the armpit region and is not used for routine blood pressure measurement due to its deeper and less accessible position.
C. Radial:The radial artery at the wrist is commonly used to assess pulse, but it is not the standard site for measuring blood pressure with a cuff and stethoscope.
D. Ulnar:The ulnar artery is also located at the wrist and serves primarily to supply the hand. It is not used for standard blood pressure measurements due to its deeper position and smaller size.
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