1 Respiratory Assessment and Initial Priorities Free Online FlashCards

What is ventilation?

Ventilation is the movement of air into and out of the lungs.

Which structures make up the upper and lower airways?

The upper airway includes the nose, mouth, pharynx, and larynx; the lower airway includes the trachea, bronchi, and smaller bronchioles.

What can supplemental oxygen not correct by itself?

Supplemental oxygen can increase available oxygen, but it does not by itself correct inadequate ventilation or an obstructed airway.

What should a focused respiratory assessment include?

Assess breathing rate and pattern, work of breathing, air movement and sounds, chest rise, appearance, and mental status.

What are common signs of respiratory distress?

Rapid breathing, accessory-muscle use, retractions, restlessness, sweating, and difficulty speaking can indicate respiratory distress.

Why can reduced breathing effort after a struggle be dangerous?

Becoming quieter, more tired, less responsive, or slower and shallower in breathing after struggling may signal fatigue and impending respiratory arrest.

How should an oxygen-saturation reading be interpreted?

Use an oxygen-saturation reading as one piece of information, not a substitute for observing the person; pulse oximeters can miss low oxygen levels.

What are the first priorities when approaching a respiratory emergency?

Make the scene safe, use appropriate protective equipment, and quickly check responsiveness and whether breathing is present and normal.

What should you avoid when checking an obstructed airway?

Check for an obvious obstruction, but do not perform a blind finger sweep. Airway maneuvers and advanced interventions depend on training and the situation.

What support may be needed if breathing is absent or inadequate?

A trained responder should provide rescue breathing or bag-mask ventilation as indicated by current training and local protocols.

What should be done if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally?

Activate EMS, obtain an AED, and begin CPR or rescue breathing according to training and the applicable algorithm; continue reassessing until help takes over.

What is oxygenation?

Oxygenation is the transfer of oxygen into the blood.