Airway and Respiratory Exam Review 2025

Which of the following structures is NOT found in the upper airway?

• Larynx

• Pharynx

• Bronchus

• Oropharynx

Structures of the lower airway include all of the following, EXCEPT:

• alveoli.

• the trachea.

• the epiglottis.

• bronchioles.

The diaphragm is innervated by the _________ nerve, which allows it to contract.

• vagus

• phrenic

• hypoglossal

• vestibulocochlear

Which of the following factors will cause a reduction in minute volume in an adult?

• Shallow breathing

• Increased tidal volume

• Respirations of 20 breaths/min

• Slight increase in respiratory rate 

Which of the following is a late sign of hypoxia?

• Anxiety

• Cyanosis

• Tachycardia

• Restlessness

Gas exchange in the lungs is facilitated by:

• adequate amounts of surfactant.

• water or blood within the alveoli.

• surfactant-destroying organisms.

• pulmonary capillary constriction.

The presence of elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood is called:

• acidosis.

• hypoxia.

• hypoxemia.

• hypercarbia.

Which of the following patients is breathing adequately?

• A conscious male with respirations of 19 breaths/min and pink skin

• A conscious female with facial cyanosis and rapid, shallow respirations

• A conscious male with respirations of 18 breaths/min and reduced tidal volume

• An unconscious 52-year-old female with snoring respirations and cool, pale skin 

Irregular respirations characterized by an increasing rate and depth of breathing followed by periods of apnea are called:

• ataxic respirations.

• agonal respirations.

• eupneic respirations. 

• Cheyne-Stokes respirations.

What is the MOST common cause of airway obstruction in an unconscious patient?

• Vomitus

• The tongue

• Blood clots

• Aspirated fluid