You pick airway, oxygen, and breathing actions in the order a nurse actually moves. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the RN exams exam guide or more RN exams practice questions.
Five respiratory questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
At the end of normal quiet expiration, just before the start of inspiration, the lungs are said to be in:
A. RV
B. ERV
C. FRC
D. IRV
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — FRC
Functional residual capacity (FRC) is the volume of air in the lungs at the end of a normal, quiet expiration, typically around 2.5-3 liters in adults. It's the resting state where the inward elastic recoil of the lungs balances the outward recoil of the chest wall, with no active muscle effort. Residual volume (RV) is the air left after maximal expiration (~1-1.5 L), not quiet expiration. Expiratory reserve volume (ERV) is the additional air that can be forcibly exhaled after a normal expiration (~1-1.5 L), not the resting volume itself. Inspiratory reserve volume (IRV) is the extra air inhaled beyond a normal breath (~2-3 L), relevant during inspiration, not expiration. Total lung capacity (TLC) is all lung volumes combined (~6 L), far exceeding the resting state. FRC represents the equilibrium point before inspiration begins, maintaining alveolar patency and efficient gas exchange, distinguishing it from other volumes tied to maximal efforts or different respiratory phases.
Question 2
The nurse is completing a patient's health history with regard to potential risk factors for lung disease. What interview question addresses the most significant risk factor for respiratory diseases?
A. Have you ever been employed in a factory, smelter, or mill?
B. Does anyone in your family have any form of lung disease?
C. Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked?
D. Have you ever lived in an area that has high levels of air pollution?
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked?
The correct answer is C: "Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked?" Smoking is the most significant risk factor for respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and emphysema. Asking about smoking history is crucial in assessing lung disease risk.
Rationale:
1. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide.
2. Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of developing various respiratory conditions.
3. Current and past smoking status helps determine the level of risk for lung disease.
4. Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can lead to lung damage over time.
Summary:
A: Occupational exposure is a risk factor, but smoking has a stronger association with respiratory diseases.
B: Family history is relevant but not as directly linked to individual behavior and risk as smoking.
D: Air pollution can contribute to lung issues, but personal smoking history has a more direct impact on lung health.
Question 3
The primary force responsible for the movement of air into the lungs during inspiration?
A. Atm-pressure
B. Muscular spasm
C. Reduced surface tension of alveoli
D. Pressure difference between atmospheric-intrapulmonary
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Pressure difference between atmospheric-intrapulmonary
Inspiration occurs when air moves into the lungs due to a pressure gradient, as per Boyle's law: expanding the thoracic cavity decreases intrapulmonary pressure below atmospheric pressure (760 mmHg to ~758 mmHg), driving air inward. This gradient, the pressure difference between atmospheric and intrapulmonary pressure, is the primary force, created by diaphragm and intercostal muscle contraction. Atmospheric pressure alone isn't a force' but a reference; it's the difference that matters. Muscular spasm implies involuntary action, not the controlled contraction of respiration. Reduced surface tension, via surfactant, aids lung expansion but isn't the driving force it reduces resistance to expansion. Muscle relaxation occurs in expiration, not inspiration. The pressure difference is the fundamental mechanism, quantifiable (e.g., 1-2 mmHg drop suffices for tidal breathing), and directly ties muscle action to airflow, distinguishing it as the essential driver of ventilation.
Question 4
TB skin test is called 'Scatch test or Mantoux test' in which Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) is injected subcutaneously. This test is based on
A. Delayed Hypersensitivity
B. Production of antibodies
C. Production of Tubercle toxin
D. All these
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Delayed Hypersensitivity
The correct answer is A: Delayed Hypersensitivity. The TB skin test, also known as the Mantoux test, is based on the principle of delayed hypersensitivity reaction. When Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) is injected subcutaneously, in individuals previously exposed to TB, the immune system mounts a delayed hypersensitivity reaction resulting in localized inflammation at the injection site. This reaction is mediated by T cells and is indicative of previous exposure to the TB bacterium.
Incorrect choices:
B: Production of antibodies - The TB skin test does not detect the production of antibodies specific to TB, but rather the cellular immune response.
C: Production of Tubercle toxin - The test is not based on the production of the tubercle toxin, but on the immune response to the tuberculin PPD.
D: All these - While the immune response may involve various components, such as antibodies and cellular responses, the primary basis of the TB skin test is the
Question 5
A patient on the medical unit has told the nurse that he is experiencing significant
dyspnea, despite that he has not recently performed any physical activity. What
assessment question should the nurse ask the patient while preparing to perform a
physical assessment?
A. On a scale from 1 to 10, how bad would rate your shortness of breath?
B. When was the last time you ate or drank anything?
C. Are you feeling any nausea along with your shortness of breath?
D. Do you think that some medication might help you catch your breath?
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — On a scale from 1 to 10, how bad would rate your shortness of breath?
Rationale for Correct Answer (A):
1. Assessing the severity of dyspnea is crucial for determining the urgency of intervention.
2. By asking for a rating on a scale from 1 to 10, the nurse can quantify the level of distress the patient is experiencing.
3. This allows for a more objective assessment and helps in determining appropriate interventions.
4. Monitoring changes in the severity of dyspnea over time can also guide treatment effectiveness.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
B. Asking about the last time the patient ate or drank is important for assessing possible contributing factors to dyspnea, but it does not directly address the immediate severity of the symptom.
C. Inquiring about nausea is relevant for a more comprehensive assessment, but it does not directly address the severity of dyspnea.
D. Asking about the potential need for medication is important, but it does not directly address the current level of dyspnea and may not be the immediate priority.
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Question 6
Following a stab wound in the chest wall, the lung will and the chest wall will?
A. Expand, expand
B. Both become fixed at the FRC
C. Collapse, collapse
D. Expand, collapse
Correct answer:
A stab wound in the chest wall causing pneumothorax disrupts the negative intrapleural pressure (normally around -4 to -6 mmHg) that keeps the lungs expanded against the chest wall. When air enters the pleural space, this pressure equalizes with atmospheric pressure, eliminating the force holding the lung open. The lung, due to its elastic recoil, collapses inward toward the hilum, reducing its volume significantly. Conversely, the chest wall, with its outward elastic recoil, springs outward, expanding away from the lung. This results in the lung collapsing and the chest wall expanding, a classic feature of pneumothorax. The lung doesn't expand, as it loses the negative pressure tether, and the chest wall doesn't collapse, as its natural tendency is to spring outward when unrestrained. Other scenarios, like both expanding or fixing at FRC, don't reflect the mechanics of pleural pressure loss, making the collapse-expansion dynamic the expected outcome of such an injury.
Using the following data, calculate the physiological dead space, Tidal volume = 600 ml, Alveolar ventilation = 4.3 L/min, PaCO2 = 40 mmHg, PECO2 = 28 mmHg:
A. 100 ml
B. 150 ml
C. 180 ml
D. 200 ml
Correct answer:
Physiological dead space (VD) is the portion of tidal volume (VT) not participating in gas exchange, calculated using the Bohr equation: VD/VT = (PaCO2 - PECO2) / PaCO2, where PaCO2 is arterial PCO2 (40 mmHg) and PECO2 is mixed expired PCO2 (28 mmHg). Plugging in the values: VD/VT = (40 - 28) / 40 = 12 / 40 = 0.3. Since VT is 600 ml, VD = 0.3 × 600 = 180 ml. To verify, alveolar ventilation (VA) is given as 4.3 L/min, and total ventilation (VE) is respiratory rate (RR) × VT. VA = VE - (VD × RR), but we can also derive VD from VA: VA = (VT - VD) × RR. Converting 4.3 L/min to 4300 ml/min and assuming RR from context (e.g., 10 breaths/min aligns with typical resting rates), VT - VD = 4300 / 10 = 430 ml, so VD = 600 - 430 = 170 ml, close to 180 ml, adjusting for rounding. The 180 ml option fits the Bohr calculation directly, confirming it as the physiological dead space, reflecting both anatomical and alveolar components not contributing to CO2 elimination.
Emily Yi, a 27-year-old real estate agent, visited a clinic to rule out any bacterial complications after her recovery from influenza. The clinic nurse educated her about over-the-counter cough suppressants, including the importance of limiting their use. What is the nurse's concern?
A. The empty calories found in pleasant-tasting syrups might cause weight gain.
B. The drug could reduce the effectiveness of coughing during the day.
C. The drug could make her too sleepy during the day and keep her awake at night.
D. If taken daily, cough suppressants are potentially addictive.
Correct answer:
After recovering from influenza, Emily Yi might use cough suppressants for lingering symptoms, but the nurse warns against overuse because they reduce coughing's effectiveness during the day. Coughing clears mucus from the airways, a vital recovery mechanism post-flu, especially to prevent bacterial complications like pneumonia. Suppressing this reflex too much, particularly when active, traps secretions, increasing infection risk a concern for a healthy 27-year-old aiming to avoid setbacks. Weight gain from syrup calories is minor and unrelated to respiratory health. Sleepiness or insomnia could occur with some formulations (e.g., dextromethorphan), but this isn't the primary issue airway clearance is. Addiction to cough suppressants requires excessive, prolonged use, unlikely here. The nurse's focus is on preserving the body's natural defense post-viral illness, ensuring Emily's lungs stay clear, aligning with post-flu care principles to prevent secondary issues.
TB skin test is called 'Scatch test or Mantoux test' in which Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) is injected subcutaneously. This test is based on
A. Delayed Hypersensitivity
B. Production of antibodies
C. Production of Tubercle toxin
D. All these
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Delayed Hypersensitivity. The TB skin test, also known as the Mantoux test, is based on the principle of delayed hypersensitivity reaction. When Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) is injected subcutaneously, in individuals previously exposed to TB, the immune system mounts a delayed hypersensitivity reaction resulting in localized inflammation at the injection site. This reaction is mediated by T cells and is indicative of previous exposure to the TB bacterium.
Incorrect choices:
B: Production of antibodies - The TB skin test does not detect the production of antibodies specific to TB, but rather the cellular immune response.
C: Production of Tubercle toxin - The test is not based on the production of the tubercle toxin, but on the immune response to the tuberculin PPD.
D: All these - While the immune response may involve various components, such as antibodies and cellular responses, the primary basis of the TB skin test is the
The nurse is completing a patient's health history with regard to potential risk factors for lung disease. What interview question addresses the most significant risk factor for respiratory diseases?
A. Have you ever been employed in a factory, smelter, or mill?
B. Does anyone in your family have any form of lung disease?
C. Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked?
D. Have you ever lived in an area that has high levels of air pollution?
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: "Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked?" Smoking is the most significant risk factor for respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and emphysema. Asking about smoking history is crucial in assessing lung disease risk.
Rationale:
1. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide.
2. Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of developing various respiratory conditions.
3. Current and past smoking status helps determine the level of risk for lung disease.
4. Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can lead to lung damage over time.
Summary:
A: Occupational exposure is a risk factor, but smoking has a stronger association with respiratory diseases.
B: Family history is relevant but not as directly linked to individual behavior and risk as smoking.
D: Air pollution can contribute to lung issues, but personal smoking history has a more direct impact on lung health.
Rhea, confused and short breath, is brought to the emergency department by a family member. The medical history reveals chronic bronchitis and hypertension. To learn more about the current respiratory problem, the doctor orders a chest x-ray and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. When reviewing the ABG report, the nurses see many abbreviations. What does a lowercase  in ABG value present?
A. Acid-base balance
B. Arterial Blood
C. Arterial oxygen saturation
D. Alveoli
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Arterial Blood. The lowercase "a" in ABG values denotes arterial blood, indicating that the values are specific to the blood obtained from an artery. ABG analysis provides information about the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, as well as the pH and bicarbonate levels, which are crucial in assessing respiratory and metabolic functions.
Choice A: Acid-base balance - This is incorrect because the lowercase "a" in ABG does not represent acid-base balance. Acid-base balance is determined by the pH level in the blood, which is one of the parameters measured in ABG analysis.
Choice C: Arterial oxygen saturation - This is incorrect because oxygen saturation is typically measured using pulse oximetry, not through ABG analysis. ABG values focus on the partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood.
Choice D: Alveoli - This is incorrect because ABG values do not directly represent the condition of the alveoli. ABG analysis
A healthy 10-year-old boy Mohammad Emyan breathes quietly under resting conditions. His tidal volume is 400 milliliters and his ventilation frequency is 12/min. Which of the following best describes the ventilation of the upper, middle, and lower lung zones in this boy?
A. Upper > Middle > Lower
B. Upper < Middle < Lower
C. Equal across all zones
D. Lower > Middle > Upper
Correct answer:
In a healthy upright individual, regional ventilation varies due to gravity and pleural pressure gradients. At rest, intrapleural pressure (IPP) is more negative at the apex (~-10 cm H2O) than the base (~-2.5 cm H2O) due to lung weight, making apices less compliant (stiffer) and bases more compliant (easier to expand). During quiet breathing (VT = 400 ml, RR = 12/min), the diaphragm's downward pull preferentially ventilates the lower zones, where compliance is higher and initial volume lower, allowing greater volume change (ÃŽâ€V). Studies (e.g., West) show lower lobes receive ~4 times more ventilation per unit volume than apices. Thus, ventilation is greatest in the lower zones, followed by middle, then upper (Lower > Middle > Upper). Equal ventilation ignores gravity's effect, and Upper > Middle > Lower reverses the gradient. For this boy, VA = (400 - ~120 ml VD) × 12 = ~3.36 L/min, distributed predominantly to the base, making this the best description.
For a male client with an endotracheal (ET) tube, which nursing action is most essential?
A. Auscultating the lungs for bilateral breath sounds.
B. Turning the client from side to side every 2 hours.
C. Monitoring serial blood gas values every 4 hours.
D. Providing frequent oral hygiene.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Auscultating the lungs for bilateral breath sounds. This is the most essential nursing action for a male client with an endotracheal tube because it ensures proper placement of the tube and adequate ventilation. By auscultating the lungs, the nurse can assess for any potential complications such as tube displacement, pneumothorax, or mucus plugging. This action helps in early detection of respiratory issues and prompt intervention if needed.
Summary:
- Choice B (Turning the client from side to side every 2 hours) is important for preventing pressure ulcers but not as critical as assessing breath sounds.
- Choice C (Monitoring serial blood gas values every 4 hours) is important for evaluating respiratory status but does not provide immediate information on tube placement.
- Choice D (Providing frequent oral hygiene) is important for preventing infections but does not directly assess the client's respiratory status with an ET tube.
A patient on the medical unit has told the nurse that he is experiencing significant
dyspnea, despite that he has not recently performed any physical activity. What
assessment question should the nurse ask the patient while preparing to perform a
physical assessment?
A. On a scale from 1 to 10, how bad would rate your shortness of breath?
B. When was the last time you ate or drank anything?
C. Are you feeling any nausea along with your shortness of breath?
D. Do you think that some medication might help you catch your breath?
Correct answer:
Rationale for Correct Answer (A):
1. Assessing the severity of dyspnea is crucial for determining the urgency of intervention.
2. By asking for a rating on a scale from 1 to 10, the nurse can quantify the level of distress the patient is experiencing.
3. This allows for a more objective assessment and helps in determining appropriate interventions.
4. Monitoring changes in the severity of dyspnea over time can also guide treatment effectiveness.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
B. Asking about the last time the patient ate or drank is important for assessing possible contributing factors to dyspnea, but it does not directly address the immediate severity of the symptom.
C. Inquiring about nausea is relevant for a more comprehensive assessment, but it does not directly address the severity of dyspnea.
D. Asking about the potential need for medication is important, but it does not directly address the current level of dyspnea and may not be the immediate priority.
Rhea, confused and short breath, is brought to the emergency department by a family member. The medical history reveals chronic bronchitis and hypertension. To learn more about the current respiratory problem, the doctor orders a chest x-ray and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. When reviewing the ABG report, the nurses see many abbreviations. What does a lowercase in ABG value present?
A. Acid-base balance
B. Arterial Blood
C. Arterial oxygen saturation
D. Alveoli
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Arterial Blood. The lowercase "a" in ABG values denotes arterial blood, indicating that the values are specific to the blood obtained from an artery. ABG analysis provides information about the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, as well as the pH and bicarbonate levels, which are crucial in assessing respiratory and metabolic functions.
Choice A: Acid-base balance - This is incorrect because the lowercase "a" in ABG does not represent acid-base balance. Acid-base balance is determined by the pH level in the blood, which is one of the parameters measured in ABG analysis.
Choice C: Arterial oxygen saturation - This is incorrect because oxygen saturation is typically measured using pulse oximetry, not through ABG analysis. ABG values focus on the partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood.
Choice D: Alveoli - This is incorrect because ABG values do not directly represent the condition of the alveoli. ABG analysis
RN exams respiratory practice questions, set 3 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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