ANATOMY

• What are the two main divisions of the respiratory system?

  • Upper Respiratory Tract
  • Lower Respiratory Tract
• Name the components of the upper respiratory tract.

  Nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, epiglottis
• How is the pharynx divided in adults?

  Into nasopharynx, oropharynx, laryngopharynx
• What anatomical differences exist between adult and pediatric airways?

  Pediatric airways are smaller, shorter, and have a larger tongue
• What is the location of the larynx in children?

  More anteriorly positioned than in adults
• What is the narrowest part of the airway in children under 10?

  The trachea just below the cricoid cartilage
• How many pieces of cartilage compose the larynx?

  Nine pieces of cartilage
• What is the function of the trachea?

  To conduct air to and from the lungs
• How long is the trachea in an adult?

  Approximately 10-12 cm long
• What supports the trachea's structure?

  16-20 incomplete C-shaped cartilage rings
• What happens to cartilage in bronchioles?

  It is replaced by smooth muscle
• What allows bronchioles to change diameter?

  Smooth muscle controlled by the nervous system
• What is the function of elastin in bronchioles?

  Allows bronchioles to recoil during expiration
• How many alveoli are approximately in an adult lung?

  About 150 million alveoli
• What is the role of the dense capillary network surrounding alveoli?

  Facilitates gaseous exchange
• What is the function of columnar ciliated epithelium in the respiratory system?

  • Warms and humidifies air
  • Produces mucus to trap debris
  • Transports mucus via the mucociliary escalator
• What are some common respiratory problems paramedics may encounter?

  COPD, lung cancer, pleural effusion
• What does COPD stand for?

  Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• What is a pleural effusion?

  Fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity
• What is a pneumothorax?

  Air in the pleural cavity
• What is a haemothorax?

  Blood accumulation in the pleural cavity