Respiratory System NCLEX Questions Related

Review Respiratory System NCLEX Questions related questions and content

A gerontologic nurse is analyzing the data from a patient's focused respiratory assessment. The nurse is aware that the amount of respiratory dead space increases with age. What is the effect of this physiological change?

  • A. Increased diffusion of gases
  • B. Decreased diffusion capacity for oxygen
  • C. Decreased shunting of blood
  • D. Increased ventilation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased diffusion capacity for oxygen. With age, respiratory dead space increases, leading to a mismatch between ventilation and perfusion in the lungs. This results in a decrease in the ability of the lungs to effectively transfer oxygen into the bloodstream, reducing the diffusion capacity for oxygen. This physiological change can lead to decreased oxygenation of tissues and organs.

Summary:
A: Increased diffusion of gases - Incorrect. Increased dead space does not enhance gas diffusion; instead, it impairs gas exchange.
C: Decreased shunting of blood - Incorrect. Shunting refers to blood bypassing oxygenation in the lungs, which is not directly affected by dead space.
D: Increased ventilation - Incorrect. While dead space may lead to increased ventilation efforts, it does not directly improve oxygen diffusion capacity.