WEMS BLS Rounds March 2024

During the assessment of a patient with shortness of breath, which sound indicates a potential obstruction in the upper airway?

• Wheezing

• Stridor

• Crackles

• Rhochi

What is the primary mechanism of action for Beta-2 agonists used in the treatment of asthma?

• Anti-inflammatory effect

• Mucolytic effect

• Bronchodilation

• Immunosuppression

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of asthma?

• Progressive destruction of alveoli leading to decreased gas exchange

• Inflammation and narrowing of the airways leading to increased resistance to airflow

• Accumulation of fluid in the alveoli leading to reduced lung compliance

• Thickening of the alveolar walls leading to reduced lung compliance

Which of the following conditions is associated with a "barrel chest" appearance due to hyperinflation of the lungs?

• Chronic bronchitis

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Asthma

• Bronchiolitis

In the management of a patient with a tension pneumothorax, what is the immediate treatment priority?

• Administration of high-flow O2

• IV Fluid Resuscitation

• Non-invasive mechanical ventilation

• Needle decompression

Which part of the respiratory system is responsible for the exchange of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) with the blood?

• Trachea

• Bronchi

• Alveoli

• Larynx

What is a common cause of shortness of breath in patients with chronic heart failure?

• Pulmonary embolism

• Pneumothorax

• Pulmonary edema

• Asthma

Which condition is characterized by a sudden blockage of a pulmonary artery by a blood clot?

• Asthma

• Pulmonary embolism

• COPD

• Pneumonia

In the context of respiratory physiology, what does the term "ventilation-perfusion mismatch" refer to?

• An imbalance between the amount of air getting into the alveoli and blood flow in the pulmonary capillaries

• The inability of the respiratory system to expel carbon dioxide effectively

• A condition where the airways are obstructed, leading to reduced airflow

• The overproduction of mucus in the bronchial tubes

Which of the following is a key feature of COPD?

• Reversible airflow limitation

• Irreversible damage to the airways and alveoli

• Decreased mucus production

• Lower extremity edema