NCLEX : Lung and Alveoli

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for NCLEX

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : Lung And Alveoli

In the average adult, how much air remains in the dead space of the lung after normal expiration?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Dead space is the volume of air that remains in the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles during respiration. It does not enter the alveoli and so does not participate in gas exchange. In the average adult, the amount of air left in the dead space after expiration is

Example Question #12 : Lung And Alveoli

What is the average volume of air breathed into and out of the respiratory system during tidal breathing?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Tidal breathing is the term for relaxed inhalation and exhalation (as opposed to maximum inspiration and forced exhalation). The average volume of air breathed into and out of the respiratory system during tidal breathing is

Example Question #13 : Lung And Alveoli

Which of the following would cause bronchioconstriction?

Possible Answers:

Parasympathetic imput

All of these cause bronchioconstriction

Cold air 

Allergens

Correct answer:

All of these cause bronchioconstriction

Explanation:

There are many factors that can cause bronchioconstriction. Some of them are normal physiological responses, such as parasympathetic input or decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the alveoli. Other causes are pathological, such as allergic bronchioconstriction or asthma triggered by cold air.

Example Question #14 : Lung And Alveoli

What are the two types of alveolar cells?

Possible Answers:

Type I and type II

A cells and B cells

Interstitial cells and active cells

Primary and secondary cells

Correct answer:

Type I and type II

Explanation:

There are two types of alveolar cells: type I cells and type II cells. Each cell type has a unique function within the alveolus, and the dysfunction of either cell type results in serious respiratory pathology. Type I cells are simple squamous epithelial cells that account for about 95% of all alveolar cells. They are the primary cells responsible for diffusion of gasses across the respiratory membranes. Type I alveolar cells are responsible for secreting surfactant, which facilitates the diffusion of substances across the epithelium.

Example Question #15 : Lung And Alveoli

When the diaphragm contracts, lung volume __________.

Possible Answers:

compresses

decreases

increases

diffuses

Correct answer:

increases

Explanation:

The diaphragm is a thin sheet of muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. At rest, it is drawn upward into a dome-like shape under the lungs. When the diaphragm contracts, the dome flattens out, which increases the size of the thoracic cavity. The negative pressure allows the lungs to expand and fill with air, causing an increase in total lung volume (inhalation). 

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