Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: The pleural space typically contains only 10 to 20 milliliters of pleural fluid. When air enters pleural space, a pneumothorax develops. Each year, approximately 20,000 cases of pneumothorax occur in…

Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: One widely prevalent obstructive respiratory disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Thirteen percent of American adults (age forty to seventy-nine) have COPD. Most cases are linked to cigarette…

Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: Asthma is one of the most prevalent conditions in the United States. Nationwide, about one in every thirteen people has asthma. About 4.8 million children and about…

Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition that results in widened, damaged airways. In the United States, there are approximately 350,000 to 500,000 adults with bronchiectasis. Increased case…

Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: Respiratory assessment is important for all patients, even in the absence of known respiratory problems. Initial assessment looks at the patient’s overall appearance, observing for pallor, cyanosis, or…

Learning Objectives By the end of this section, you will be able to: An adequately functioning respiratory system is vital to survival. Each breath provides an opportunity for the body to receive oxygen, remove carbon dioxide, and help maintain acid-base…

Figure 11.1 Vigorous exercise requires a healthy respiratory system. (credit: modification of “Working Out At The Reily Center (3726377407)” by Tulane Public Relations/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0) Chapter Outline 11.1 Concepts of Oxygenation and Perfusion 11.2 Upper and Lower Respiratory Assessment 11.3 Disorders of the…