Airway Anatomy
What is the main muscle responsible for breathing?
The diaphragm
What do you call normal breath sounds heard in both lungs?
Clear breath sounds
What device delivers 1–6 L/min of oxygen and provides 24–44% O₂?
Nasal cannula
What gas stimulates breathing in healthy adults?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
What condition is caused by a sudden narrowing of the airways in response to an irritant or allergen?
Asthma
What structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?
The epiglottis
What lung sound indicates narrowed airways, often heard in asthma?
Wheezing
What device delivers 10–15 L/min and can provide up to 90% O₂?
Nonrebreather mask (NRB)
What is the normal respiratory rate for an adult?
12–20 breaths per minute
What is the term for buildup of fluid in the lungs due to heart failure?
Pulmonary edema
What are the two main branches of the trachea called?
The bronchi
Crackles (rales) are often associated with what condition?
Congestive heart failure (CHF)
What device is used when the patient isn’t breathing adequately and needs ventilation support?
Bag-valve-mask (BVM)
What is the process of moving air in and out of the lungs called?
Ventilation
What life-threatening condition is caused by a collapsed lung?
Pneumothorax
Where does gas exchange take place in the lungs?
The alveoli
What harsh, high-pitched sound may indicate an upper airway obstruction?
Stridor
What should you always check before applying an oxygen device?
That the oxygen tank is on and the flow is set
What part of the brain controls the rate and depth of breathing?
The medulla oblongata
A patient with chronic bronchitis and emphysema is said to have what condition?
COPD
What structure connects the throat to the lungs and is supported by rings of cartilage?
The trachea
Diminished or absent lung sounds can indicate what serious issue?
Pneumothorax or severe respiratory failure
According to NYS BLS protocol, when should oxygen be administered?
When the patient shows signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia
What is the term for inadequate breathing where the patient’s rate or depth is insufficient?
Hypoventilation
What should you suspect when a patient has rapid, shallow breathing and anxiety after a traumatic chest injury?
Tension pneumothorax