Question 1

Which muscle is responsible for breathing?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The diaphragm is the primary muscle of ventilation; its contraction increases thoracic volume and creates negative pressure to draw air into the lungs. Relaxation of the diaphragm allows passive exhalation during quiet breathing. Trapezius and deltoid primarily move the shoulder girdle/arm, while pectoralis muscles may assist as accessory muscles during labored breathing but are not the main muscle responsible for breathing.
Category reason: This question tests foundational knowledge of the primary muscle used in ventilation, which is core respiratory physiology/anatomy rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 2

Blue skin of a newborn indicates lack of?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Blue discoloration (cyanosis) in a newborn is most consistent with inadequate oxygenation—an increased proportion of deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood. This reflects hypoxemia from respiratory compromise or potential cardiac shunting, rather than deficiencies of glucose, calcium, or iron. Hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia typically present with jitteriness, lethargy, or seizures, and iron deficiency causes pallor/anemia rather than cyanosis.
Category reason: The question tests recognition of cyanosis as a sign of impaired oxygenation, which is primarily a foundational concept of respiratory physiology rather than a nursing intervention/prioritization scenario.

Question 3

Which muscle is primarily responsible for breathing?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration; its contraction flattens and increases thoracic volume, creating negative pressure that draws air into the lungs. Intercostal muscles assist by elevating or depressing the ribs, especially with increased ventilatory demand. Abdominal muscles mainly contribute to forced expiration and coughing. Cardiac muscle is responsible for heart contraction, not ventilation.
Category reason: This question tests core knowledge of respiratory mechanics and the main muscle driving ventilation, which is foundational Respiratory System physiology rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 4

What symptom may appear first in silent pneumonia?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: “Silent pneumonia” often refers to pneumonia—especially in older adults—presenting without prominent respiratory complaints early on. Early manifestations can be atypical, with acute confusion/delirium resulting from hypoxemia and systemic inflammation, sometimes preceding fever or a notable cough. Mild cough and fever are common pneumonia symptoms but may be absent or delayed in these atypical presentations. Therefore, confusion is the symptom most likely to appear first in silent pneumonia.
Category reason: The item tests knowledge of how pneumonia can present (typical vs atypical/“silent” presentations), which is a respiratory-system clinical science concept rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization question.

Question 5

Which of the following is not among diagnostic signs and symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pulmonary tuberculosis classically presents with a persistent cough (often >2–3 weeks), and may include chest/pleuritic pain depending on pleural involvement; dyspnea can occur in more advanced disease or extensive lung involvement. Vomiting is not a typical diagnostic sign of pulmonary TB and is more suggestive of gastrointestinal illness or medication adverse effects rather than the primary pulmonary infection. Therefore, among the options, vomiting is the best choice for a symptom not among the usual diagnostic features of pulmonary TB.
Category reason: This question tests recognition of clinical signs and symptoms of a respiratory infectious disease (pulmonary tuberculosis), which is foundational biomedical knowledge about respiratory system conditions rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 6

Normal tidal volume?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Normal spontaneous tidal volume in a healthy adult at rest is about 6–8 mL/kg of ideal body weight. Values like 3 mL/kg are too low for normal ventilation and are more consistent with restrictive/protective extremes rather than normal. Volumes of 10–12 or 15 mL/kg are higher than normal and can increase risk of volutrauma if used as ventilator settings. Therefore, 6–8 mL/kg is the best answer.
Category reason: The item tests foundational knowledge of normal breathing mechanics and lung volumes, which is primarily respiratory physiology rather than a nursing intervention/priority decision.

Question 7

What is the primary function of the diaphragm?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration. When it contracts, it flattens and increases thoracic cavity volume, creating negative pressure that draws air into the lungs (inspiration). Relaxation allows passive recoil and supports expiration. Pumping blood is primarily the heart’s role, and hormone production is endocrine; while the diaphragm can assist with functions like increasing intra-abdominal pressure, its main role is breathing.
Category reason: This question tests foundational knowledge of the diaphragm’s role in ventilation mechanics, which is a core concept of the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or clinical decision-making scenario.

Question 8

Epiglottis is made up of which of the following tissues?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The epiglottis is composed primarily of elastic cartilage, which provides flexibility and resilience to bend over the laryngeal inlet during swallowing and then return to its resting position. Bone is rigid and would not allow this repeated movement. Tendons connect muscle to bone, and ligaments connect bone to bone; neither describes the structural tissue of the epiglottis itself. Therefore, cartilage is the best answer.
Category reason: This item tests foundational knowledge of the tissue composition of a respiratory/laryngeal structure (epiglottis), which is primarily anatomy/physiology of the respiratory system rather than a nursing intervention or clinical judgment scenario.

Question 9

PEEP prevents?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) maintains positive pressure in the airways at the end of expiration, which increases functional residual capacity and keeps alveoli open. By preventing alveolar collapse, it reduces atelectasis and improves oxygenation. In contrast, PEEP can worsen hypotension by decreasing venous return, and it does not directly prevent arrhythmias or anemia.
Category reason: This question tests the physiologic effect of a ventilator setting (PEEP) on lung mechanics and alveolar stability, which is core Respiratory System knowledge rather than a nursing judgment/action scenario.

Question 10

Oxygen saturation in healthy adults is..?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: In healthy adults at sea level, normal pulse oximetry (SpO2) is typically in the mid-to-high 90s, commonly cited as 95–100%. Values in the low 90s suggest mild hypoxemia and warrant further assessment depending on context. An SpO2 of 85–90% represents clinically significant hypoxemia. Saturations above 100% are not physiologically possible on standard pulse oximetry.
Category reason: The item tests normal physiologic oxygenation ranges (SpO2) rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization decision, making it foundational respiratory physiology.

Question 11

In tuberculosis, bacteria usually attack

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) is transmitted primarily via inhaled airborne droplets and most commonly establishes infection in the lungs, making pulmonary TB the typical presentation. While TB can disseminate and affect other organs (e.g., lymph nodes, bones, meninges), the lungs are the usual primary site of infection. Therefore, among the options provided, the lungs are the best answer.
Category reason: The question tests foundational knowledge of the usual primary organ system affected by tuberculosis, which is a core topic in respiratory system disease and infection rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 12

Smoking Increase Which Gas Content In Blood: Beingdoctor :(?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide (CO), which is absorbed into the bloodstream during inhalation. CO binds hemoglobin with much higher affinity than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and increasing CO content in blood. This reduces oxygen-carrying capacity and impairs tissue oxygen delivery. The other listed gases are not characteristically increased in blood due to smoking exposure.
Category reason: The question tests foundational physiology/pathophysiology of inhaled gases and blood gas content related to smoking exposure, which best fits the Respiratory System domain rather than nursing care decision-making.

Question 13

What is the main muscle used for breathing?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The diaphragm is the primary muscle of inspiration. When it contracts, it descends and increases thoracic cavity volume, creating negative intrathoracic pressure that draws air into the lungs. Deltoid and biceps are upper-limb muscles and do not drive normal ventilation (they may only be indirectly involved as accessory muscles during respiratory distress via shoulder girdle positioning).
Category reason: This question tests foundational knowledge of the primary muscle responsible for ventilation, which is a core concept of the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or clinical judgment scenario.

Question 14

What is the hallmark symptom of pulmonary embolism?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Dyspnea (sudden unexplained shortness of breath) is the most common and hallmark presenting symptom of pulmonary embolism due to acute ventilation–perfusion mismatch and impaired pulmonary perfusion. Pleuritic chest pain and hemoptysis can occur, especially with pulmonary infarction, but they are less consistently present. Cyanosis is a late or severe finding and is not the typical hallmark symptom in most cases.
Category reason: This item tests recognition of the classic clinical manifestation of a disease (pulmonary embolism) and its respiratory presentation, which is primarily foundational pathophysiology/clinical features rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 15

Asthmatic patients find it difficult to ____.

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: In asthma, airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction narrow the bronchi and increase airway resistance, which most prominently limits expiratory flow. Patients have difficulty fully exhaling, leading to air trapping and hyperinflation, which can then make subsequent inhalation feel harder as well. Clinically this is reflected by prolonged expiration and reduced peak expiratory flow. Therefore, the best answer is difficulty breathing out.
Category reason: The item tests core pathophysiology of asthma (obstructive airway disease affecting expiratory airflow), which is foundational respiratory-system science rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 16

Which of the following is the primary site for gas exchange in the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Gas exchange occurs primarily at the alveoli, where the thin alveolar-capillary membrane allows diffusion of oxygen into pulmonary capillary blood and carbon dioxide out into the alveolar air. The large surface area and rich capillary network of the alveoli optimize diffusion. In contrast, the trachea, bronchi, and pharynx mainly function as conducting airways and do not provide the specialized surface for significant gas exchange.
Category reason: This question tests foundational knowledge of where oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion occurs in the lungs, which is a core concept of respiratory system structure and function.

Question 17

Emphysema is a disease of?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by destruction of alveolar walls and enlargement of air spaces distal to the terminal bronchioles. This reduces elastic recoil and causes air trapping, leading to impaired gas exchange and dyspnea. Because the primary pathology is in the lung parenchyma (alveoli), the correct organ system is the lungs.
Category reason: The item tests foundational knowledge of which organ system is affected by emphysema, a core topic within the Respiratory System rather than nursing interventions or prioritization.

Question 18

Which condition is characterized by inflammation of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lung parenchyma (especially the alveoli), most commonly due to infection, leading to consolidation and impaired gas exchange. Bronchitis primarily involves inflammation of the bronchi (large airways), not the alveolar lung tissue. Asthma is characterized by reversible airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation, mainly affecting bronchi/bronchioles. Emphysema is destruction of alveolar walls with airspace enlargement rather than an acute inflammatory process of the lungs.
Category reason: The question tests identification of a respiratory disease based on its defining pathophysiology (inflammation of lung tissue), which is foundational biomedical knowledge within the Respiratory System.

Question 19

Which age group is most at risk of pneumonia?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Newborns and older adults have the highest pneumonia risk because their immune defenses are less effective: neonates have immature immunity, and the elderly experience immunosenescence. Older adults also commonly have comorbidities, reduced cough/gag reflex, and impaired mucociliary clearance that promote lower respiratory infection. Teenagers and young adults generally have stronger host defenses and fewer chronic conditions, making pneumonia less common compared with the extremes of age.
Category reason: The question tests epidemiologic risk based on age and susceptibility to a respiratory infection rather than requiring a nursing intervention or prioritization decision, so it fits foundational Respiratory System knowledge.

Question 20

What is the main cause of pneumonia?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pneumonia is most commonly caused by bacterial infection, particularly community-acquired pneumonia due to organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae. While viruses can also cause pneumonia, bacterial etiologies are traditionally considered the most frequent overall and are a common focus in foundational nursing/medical education. Allergy is not a primary cause of infectious pneumonia, and fungal pneumonia is typically seen in immunocompromised hosts and is less common in the general population. Therefore, bacteria is the best answer.
Category reason: This item tests foundational knowledge about the etiology of a respiratory disease (pneumonia), which is primarily taught under the Respiratory System rather than nursing interventions or care prioritization.

Question 21

Which symptom is most common in pneumonia?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pneumonia is an infection/inflammation of the lung parenchyma that commonly produces increased respiratory secretions. A productive cough (cough with phlegm/sputum) is therefore a classic and common symptom, often accompanied by fever and dyspnea. Skin rash, itching, and joint pain are not typical primary features of pneumonia and would suggest alternative diagnoses or complications rather than the most common presentation.
Category reason: This question tests recognition of a common clinical manifestation of a lung infection, which is best categorized under the Respiratory System in foundational nursing science.

Question 22

You are charting on a patient who has rhonchi. What is the BEST description of rhonchi lung sounds?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Rhonchi are low-pitched, continuous, snoring or gurgling sounds caused by airflow through large airways obstructed by secretions or mucus. They often change or clear after coughing or suctioning, which helps distinguish them from other adventitious sounds. Crackles are discontinuous popping sounds, wheezes are typically high-pitched musical sounds from narrowed small airways, and a grating sound is more consistent with a pleural friction rub.
Category reason: This question tests recognition and description of an abnormal breath sound (rhonchi) and its physiologic basis in the airways, which is foundational respiratory assessment knowledge rather than a nursing management decision.

Question 23

Primary Atypical pneumonia is caused by?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Primary atypical pneumonia is classically caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a common agent of “walking pneumonia,” especially in school-aged children and young adults. It produces an atypical clinical picture (often gradual onset, dry cough, and diffuse/interstitial findings) compared with typical lobar pneumonia. TB causes chronic granulomatous infection rather than acute primary atypical pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumoniae (“pneumococcus”) and Klebsiella pneumoniae are typical causes of community-acquired lobar pneumonia.
Category reason: The question tests etiologic microbiology of a respiratory infection (cause of primary atypical pneumonia), which is foundational disease knowledge within the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or safety/priority decision.

Question 24

Hypercarbia is characterized by?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Hypercarbia (elevated PaCO2) causes respiratory acidosis and cerebral vasodilation, which can increase intracranial pressure and trigger sympathetic stimulation. Clinically this often presents with elevated blood pressure (and may be accompanied by tachycardia and warm, flushed skin). Miosis is more characteristic of opioid intoxication, and cool extremities suggest hypoperfusion rather than CO2 retention. Bradycardia is not a typical primary sign of hypercarbia unless there is severe hypoxia or markedly increased intracranial pressure with late decompensation.
Category reason: This question tests recognition of physiologic manifestations of elevated carbon dioxide and its systemic effects, which is foundational respiratory physiology rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 25

Nurse Garcia is conducting an admitting assessment for a child admitted to the pediatric unit with bacterial pneumonia. What findings would Nurse Garcia expect to observe?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Bacterial pneumonia in children commonly presents with acute systemic signs such as high fever due to the inflammatory response to bacterial infection. In contrast, a nonproductive cough and rhinitis are more typical of viral upper respiratory infections, while gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are not hallmark findings of bacterial pneumonia. Therefore, a significantly high fever is the most expected assessment finding.
Category reason: The question tests expected clinical manifestations of bacterial pneumonia, which is primarily respiratory pathophysiology and symptom recognition rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization decision, fitting the Respiratory System domain.

Question 26

Nurse Emily is assessing a client who has been admitted with a temperature of 99.8°F, reports of blood-tinged hemoptysis, fatigue, and night sweats. These symptoms suggest which likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Tuberculosis classically presents with constitutional symptoms such as fatigue and night sweats along with respiratory findings like hemoptysis. Blood-tinged sputum is particularly suggestive of TB due to cavitary lung disease and airway irritation. A low-grade fever can be present and may not always be high. Pneumonia more commonly presents with acute fever, productive cough, and pleuritic symptoms rather than chronic night sweats and hemoptysis.
Category reason: The item tests recognition of a disease presentation (TB vs other causes) based on respiratory signs and symptoms, which is primarily foundational medical knowledge within the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention/prioritization task.

Question 27

Lungs are enclosed within?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Each lung is covered by visceral pleura and the thoracic cavity is lined by parietal pleura; together these layers form the pleural membrane enclosing the lungs. The pleural cavity between them contains a small amount of lubricating fluid to reduce friction during breathing. Perichondrium covers cartilage, periosteum covers bone, and pericardium encloses the heart, not the lungs.
Category reason: The question tests anatomical knowledge of the coverings of the lungs (pleura), which is a core concept of the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 28

A newborn develops pneumothorax on the first day of life. All the following conditions can produce pneumothorax except?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Neonatal pneumothorax most commonly results from alveolar overdistension and air-leak syndromes due to underlying lung disease (e.g., meconium aspiration) or poor lung compliance (e.g., pulmonary hypoplasia), and it can also occur spontaneously on day 1. Perinatal asphyxia is associated with respiratory distress and need for resuscitation/positive-pressure ventilation, which increases risk of air leak. Renal malformations do not directly cause alveolar rupture or air-leak physiology and are not a typical primary cause of neonatal pneumothorax.
Category reason: The question tests causes and mechanisms of neonatal pneumothorax (air-leak pathophysiology) rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization decision, so it fits Respiratory System foundational knowledge.

Question 29

Spirometer is used to measure the capacity of?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: A spirometer measures lung volumes and capacities by recording the volume of air inhaled and exhaled. It is commonly used in pulmonary function testing to assess ventilation and detect obstructive or restrictive lung disease patterns. It does not measure the functional capacity of the heart, liver, or brain.
Category reason: This question tests knowledge of a diagnostic tool used to evaluate pulmonary (lung) volumes and capacities, which is core content of the Respiratory System.

Question 30

What is the function of the alveoli in the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Alveoli are thin-walled air sacs surrounded by pulmonary capillaries where diffusion of gases occurs. Oxygen moves from the alveolar air into the blood, and carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled. Filtration of air and mucus production primarily occur in the upper airways and bronchi, not in the alveoli. Oxygen transport in the body is mainly via hemoglobin in red blood cells after gas exchange has occurred.
Category reason: This question tests the primary physiological role of alveoli within the lungs, which is a foundational concept of respiratory anatomy and function rather than a nursing intervention or clinical judgment scenario.

Question 31

Q. 644: The functional unit of the lung is the?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The alveolus is the primary functional unit of the lung because it is the site of gas exchange between air and blood across the alveolar-capillary membrane. Oxygen diffuses from the alveoli into pulmonary capillaries, and carbon dioxide diffuses in the opposite direction. Bronchioles and the trachea mainly conduct air, while the pleura is a serous membrane facilitating lung movement and reducing friction, not gas exchange.
Category reason: This item tests foundational knowledge of lung structure-function, specifically the site of gas exchange, which is part of the Respiratory System in nursing science.

Question 32

A sign of central cyanosis is clinically looking for a shade of blue around which aspect of the body?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Central cyanosis reflects decreased arterial oxygen saturation and is best seen in central, well-perfused mucous membranes such as the lips and tongue. Blue discoloration of lips indicates systemic hypoxemia rather than just poor peripheral perfusion. In contrast, blue discoloration of feet or nails is more consistent with peripheral cyanosis from vasoconstriction or low peripheral blood flow.
Category reason: The item tests recognition of a clinical sign related to oxygenation and hypoxemia, which is foundational knowledge of the respiratory system rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 33

Which organ is affected by pneumonia?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pneumonia is an infection/inflammation of the lung parenchyma, especially the alveoli, leading to exudate and consolidation. This primarily impairs gas exchange and causes respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, and dyspnea. While pneumonia can have systemic complications, the organ directly affected is the lungs.
Category reason: The item tests foundational knowledge of which organ system pneumonia involves, which is core content of the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 34

Lungs help in:

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system responsible for ventilation and gas exchange, bringing oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide. This process is essential for cellular respiration and maintaining normal blood gas levels and acid-base balance. Digestion is performed by the gastrointestinal tract, pumping blood is the heart’s function, and thinking is a function of the brain.
Category reason: The question tests basic organ function of the lungs, which is foundational knowledge of the Respiratory System rather than a nursing intervention or clinical judgment scenario.

Question 35

The total number of alveoli present in human lungs is estimated to be ____?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Adult human lungs contain on the order of hundreds of millions of alveoli; standard physiology/anatomy references commonly cite approximately 300–500 million total alveoli. Among the choices, 500 million best matches this widely taught estimate. The larger values (800 million, 1 billion, 1.5 billion) are above the typical accepted range for total alveolar count in both lungs.
Category reason: This item tests a foundational quantitative fact about lung structure (alveolar number), which is a core topic in respiratory anatomy/physiology rather than a nursing care decision.

Question 36

What is the windpipe called?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The windpipe is the trachea, a cartilaginous airway that conducts air from the larynx to the main bronchi. It is supported by C-shaped rings that keep the airway open during breathing. The larynx is the voice box located above the trachea, and bronchitis is an inflammatory condition, not an anatomical structure.
Category reason: This question tests identification of a respiratory anatomical structure (windpipe = trachea), which is foundational knowledge within the Respiratory System.

Question 37

The number one bacteria that causes community acquired pneumonia is?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common bacterial cause of community-acquired pneumonia in adults and is classically associated with lobar pneumonia. It commonly colonizes the nasopharynx and can invade the lower respiratory tract, particularly after viral illness or in older adults and those with chronic disease. Haemophilus influenzae is also a cause of CAP (especially in COPD), but it is not the leading overall bacterial pathogen. Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae more often cause atypical CAP and are less commonly the number one cause.
Category reason: The item tests identification of the most common etiologic bacterial agent of community-acquired pneumonia, which is foundational respiratory infectious disease knowledge rather than nursing intervention or prioritization.

Question 38

Emphysema is a disease of?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by destruction of alveolar walls and enlargement of distal air spaces, leading to reduced surface area for gas exchange. This causes airflow limitation, air trapping, and hyperinflation, resulting in dyspnea and decreased oxygenation. Because the primary pathology is in the alveoli and lung parenchyma, it is a disease of the lungs rather than the heart, liver, or kidneys.
Category reason: The question tests foundational knowledge of which organ system is affected by emphysema, a core topic in respiratory system science rather than a nursing intervention or prioritization scenario.

Question 39

Diaphragm helps in:

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration. When it contracts, it flattens and increases thoracic cavity volume, creating negative intrathoracic pressure that draws air into the lungs (inspiration). Relaxation allows the thoracic volume to decrease, aiding passive expiration. While diaphragm movement can influence venous return and abdominal pressure, its main function is breathing.
Category reason: This question tests foundational knowledge of the diaphragm’s physiologic role in ventilation, which is core content within the Respiratory System rather than nursing judgment or interventions.

Question 40

Which acid-base imbalance is likely in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: COPD commonly causes chronic hypoventilation and air trapping, leading to CO2 retention (hypercapnia). Increased PaCO2 shifts the carbonic acid–bicarbonate buffer toward more hydrogen ions, lowering pH and producing respiratory acidosis. Over time, the kidneys partially compensate by retaining bicarbonate, but the primary disturbance remains respiratory acidosis. Therefore, among the options, respiratory acidosis is the most likely imbalance in COPD.
Category reason: The question tests the physiologic acid–base effect of chronic CO2 retention in COPD, which is core Respiratory System pathophysiology rather than nursing interventions or prioritization.

Question 41

Main aim of mechanical ventilation?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Mechanical ventilation is primarily used to support gas exchange, ensuring adequate oxygen delivery (oxygenation) and, when needed, removal of carbon dioxide (ventilation). Among the choices, oxygenation best represents the core therapeutic goal of placing a patient on a ventilator. Pain relief, nutrition, and blood pressure control are not primary aims of mechanical ventilation, though they may be addressed concurrently in critical care.
Category reason: The question tests foundational knowledge of the purpose of mechanical ventilation and gas exchange, which is a core topic within the Respiratory System.

Question 42

The trachea connects the larynx to the:

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Anatomically, the trachea (windpipe) extends inferiorly from the larynx and bifurcates at the carina into the right and left main bronchi. The pharynx lies superior/posterior to the larynx and is not directly connected by the trachea. Alveoli are distal gas-exchange units reached via bronchioles, not directly from the trachea. The esophagus is part of the digestive tract and runs posterior to the trachea.
Category reason: This question tests basic anatomy of the airway—specifically the structural continuity from larynx to trachea to main bronchi—which is core Respiratory System content.

Question 43

Pulmonary edema is accumulation of fluid in?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Pulmonary edema refers to excess fluid accumulating within the lung interstitium and especially the alveolar spaces, which impairs gas exchange and causes hypoxemia and dyspnea. Fluid in the pleural cavity is a pleural effusion, not pulmonary edema. Fluid primarily in the bronchi or trachea would suggest airway secretions/aspiration rather than edema of the lung parenchyma.
Category reason: The question tests a definition/location of a respiratory pathology process (where fluid accumulates in pulmonary edema), which is foundational respiratory system knowledge rather than a nursing intervention scenario.

Question 44

30 Years old lady presented with dyspnoea. She is Non smoker. Her X-ray shows increased translucency and Alpha 1 antitrypsin is deficient. What will be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency causes panacinar emphysema due to unopposed elastase activity, leading to destruction of distal airspaces and loss of alveolar septa. The primary pathology is in the acinus (respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli), producing hyperinflation and increased radiolucency on chest X-ray. Among the options, the alveolar duct best represents the distal acinar structures most affected in emphysema. Proximal bronchioles and small bronchi are more associated with chronic bronchitis and airway disease rather than primary emphysematous destruction.
Category reason: The question tests pathophysiology and anatomical site of lung damage in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency emphysema, which is foundational biomedical knowledge of the Respiratory System rather than nursing interventions or clinical prioritization.

Question 45

What is common symptoms of asthma?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Asthma is characterized by reversible airway obstruction due to bronchospasm, airway inflammation, and mucus production, which commonly produces wheezing (a high-pitched, musical expiratory sound). Fever is more suggestive of infection rather than asthma itself. Hair loss and joint pain are not typical respiratory manifestations of asthma. Therefore, wheezing is the most correct option.
Category reason: The question tests recognition of a classic clinical manifestation of asthma, a disease of the airways, which is core content of the Respiratory System in nursing science.

Question 46

Quel traitement proposez-vous?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Among the listed inhaled COPD/asthma maintenance regimens, triple therapy (ICS + LABA + LAMA) provides the broadest bronchodilation plus anti-inflammatory effect and is typically selected when symptoms and/or exacerbations persist despite dual therapy. LABA+LAMA improves airflow and symptoms but does not address eosinophilic inflammation that benefits from an ICS. ICS+LABA alone lacks the additional bronchodilation from a LAMA for patients needing escalation. Therefore the most comprehensive escalation choice in this list is CSI LABA LAMA.
Category reason: The item asks to choose an inhaled respiratory pharmacotherapy regimen (ICS, LABA, LAMA), which is foundational management of obstructive airway disease and best fits the Respiratory System subject rather than nursing-care prioritization.

Question 47

The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place in which part of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: Gas exchange occurs across the thin alveolar-capillary membrane in the alveoli, where oxygen diffuses into pulmonary capillary blood and carbon dioxide diffuses into the alveolar space to be exhaled. The bronchi and trachea are conducting airways that move air but are not specialized for diffusion. The pleura is a serous membrane surrounding the lungs and does not participate in gas exchange.
Category reason: This item tests foundational knowledge of where pulmonary gas exchange occurs, which is a core concept in respiratory system physiology rather than a nursing intervention or clinical judgment scenario.

Question 48

The tiny hairs inside the nose are called?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The nasal cavity is lined with respiratory epithelium that contains cilia, which beat to move mucus and trapped particles toward the pharynx (mucociliary clearance). This is a key mechanical defense of the upper respiratory tract. Nephrons are kidney functional units, alveoli are air sacs in the lungs, and dendrites are neuronal processes, so they do not describe nasal hairs.
Category reason: This question tests knowledge of an upper airway structure and its function in filtering/clearing inhaled particles, which is part of the Respiratory System.

Question 49

Which is correct for Bohr’s effect?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The Bohr effect states that increased CO2 (and the associated increase in H+/lower pH) reduces hemoglobin’s affinity for oxygen, shifting the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve to the right to promote O2 unloading in tissues. Conversely, lower CO2/higher pH increases Hb affinity for O2, favoring O2 loading in the lungs. Options about O2 affecting CO2 binding describe the Haldane effect, not the Bohr effect.
Category reason: This is a foundational gas-transport physiology question about how CO2/pH alters hemoglobin-oxygen binding, which belongs to Respiratory System physiology rather than nursing interventions or care decisions.

Question 50

The covering of lungs is called?

Accepted Answer

Answer reason: The lungs are covered by a serous membrane called the pleura (visceral pleura covers the lung surface; parietal pleura lines the thoracic cavity). The pericardium covers the heart, the peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity and covers abdominal organs, and the meninges cover the brain and spinal cord. Therefore, pleura is the correct term for the covering of the lungs.
Category reason: This is a foundational anatomy/physiology question about membranes associated with the lungs, which is primarily Respiratory System content rather than a nursing care decision.

Train with a large NCLEX question bank and jump into a full exam-style simulator

Respiratory System NCLEX Practice Test

Continue Learning

Which muscle is responsible for breathing?

Blue skin of a newborn indicates lack of?

Which muscle is primarily responsible for breathing?

What symptom may appear first in silent pneumonia?

Which of the following is not among diagnostic signs and symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis?

Normal tidal volume?

What is the primary function of the diaphragm?

Epiglottis is made up of which of the following tissues?

PEEP prevents?

Oxygen saturation in healthy adults is..?

In tuberculosis, bacteria usually attack

Smoking Increase Which Gas Content In Blood: Beingdoctor :(?

What is the main muscle used for breathing?

What is the hallmark symptom of pulmonary embolism?

Asthmatic patients find it difficult to ____.

Which of the following is the primary site for gas exchange in the respiratory system?

Emphysema is a disease of?

Which condition is characterized by inflammation of the lungs?

Which age group is most at risk of pneumonia?

What is the main cause of pneumonia?

Which symptom is most common in pneumonia?

You are charting on a patient who has rhonchi. What is the BEST description of rhonchi lung sounds?

Primary Atypical pneumonia is caused by?

Hypercarbia is characterized by?

Nurse Garcia is conducting an admitting assessment for a child admitted to the pediatric unit with bacterial pneumonia. What findings would Nurse Garcia expect to observe?

Nurse Emily is assessing a client who has been admitted with a temperature of 99.8°F, reports of blood-tinged hemoptysis, fatigue, and night sweats. These symptoms suggest which likely diagnosis?

Lungs are enclosed within?

A newborn develops pneumothorax on the first day of life. All the following conditions can produce pneumothorax except?

Spirometer is used to measure the capacity of?

What is the function of the alveoli in the respiratory system?

Q. 644: The functional unit of the lung is the?

A sign of central cyanosis is clinically looking for a shade of blue around which aspect of the body?

Which organ is affected by pneumonia?

Lungs help in:

The total number of alveoli present in human lungs is estimated to be ____?

What is the windpipe called?

The number one bacteria that causes community acquired pneumonia is?

Emphysema is a disease of?

Diaphragm helps in:

Which acid-base imbalance is likely in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Main aim of mechanical ventilation?

The trachea connects the larynx to the:

Pulmonary edema is accumulation of fluid in?

30 Years old lady presented with dyspnoea. She is Non smoker. Her X-ray shows increased translucency and Alpha 1 antitrypsin is deficient. What will be most affected?

What is common symptoms of asthma?

Quel traitement proposez-vous?

The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place in which part of the lungs?

The tiny hairs inside the nose are called?

Which is correct for Bohr’s effect?

The covering of lungs is called?

Think you’re ready for the NCLEX?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply