An Overview of the Respiratory System: Anatomy, Physiology, Assessment, and Abnormalities

The upper respiratory tract plays a vital role in the respiratory system, comprising several structures that facilitate air intake and prepare air for the …

The lower respiratory tract is anatomically composed of several vital structures, including the larynx, trachea, bronchial tree, alveoli, lungs, and …

The physiology of respiration involves three fundamental processes: ventilation, oxygenation, and the dynamics of compliance and resistance. Ventilation …

The regulation of respiration is mediated by a cluster of neurons in the brainstem known as the respiratory centers. The respiratory centers are divided …

A respiratory tract assessment helps identify and manage respiratory conditions by collecting both subjective and objective data. Subjective data is …

Inspection is the initial step in assessing the respiratory system. It involves observing the following components. Initially, the chest configuration is …

Palpation is a method of assessing the respiratory tract to detect tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and fremitus. First, the nurse …

Begin the percussion assessment by positioning the patient upright and leaning forward with arms folded for the posterior chest examination. Start …

Auscultation is a crucial method in respiratory assessment that provides vital information about airflow and lung obstructions. Begin by instructing the …

Inspection and percussion methods of examination help detect respiratory system abnormalities. Abnormalities detected during the inspection include the …

In respiratory assessments, palpation can detect abnormalities such as tracheal deviation, suggesting conditions like tension pneumothorax or large …