Questions for Respiratory System Related

Review Questions for Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse instructs a female client to use the pursed-lip method of breathing and the client asks the nurse about the purpose of this type of breathing. The nurse responds, knowing that the primary purpose of pursed-lip breathing is to:

  • A. Promote oxygen intake.
  • B. Strengthen the diaphragm.
  • C. Strengthen the intercostal muscles.
  • D. Promote carbon dioxide elimination.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Promote carbon dioxide elimination. Pursed-lip breathing is a technique used to slow down breathing and help control shortness of breath. By exhaling through pursed lips, it creates back-pressure in the airways, allowing more time for the lungs to empty and facilitating better removal of carbon dioxide. This helps improve oxygenation by optimizing the gas exchange process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because pursed-lip breathing primarily focuses on improving ventilation and gas exchange, not specifically on increasing oxygen intake or strengthening specific respiratory muscles.