Questions for the Respiratory System Related

Review Questions for the Respiratory System related questions and content

The nurse assessing the CBC of a patient with chronic bronchitis identifies a typical feature of this disease, which is:

  • A. Decreased platelets.
  • B. Decreased white blood cells.
  • C. Increased eosinophils.
  • D. Increased red blood cells.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased red blood cells. In chronic bronchitis, the body compensates for chronic hypoxia by increasing red blood cell production (erythropoiesis) to improve oxygen delivery. This is known as polycythemia. Decreased platelets (A) and white blood cells (B) are not typical features of chronic bronchitis. Increased eosinophils (C) are more commonly associated with allergic conditions or parasitic infections, not chronic bronchitis. In summary, the increased red blood cells in chronic bronchitis help enhance oxygen-carrying capacity, distinguishing it from the other options.