,NUR104 Foundations of Nursing Exam 3 Study
Guide & 150 Practice Questions Fortis College
2026/2027
1. A nurse is reviewing the anatomy of the respiratory system. Which structure is the primary
site of gas exchange?
A. Bronchi
B. Trachea
C. Alveoli
D. Larynx
Correct Answer: C. Alveoli
Rationale: The alveoli are the primary site of gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) in the
lungs. The bronchi, trachea, and larynx are part of the conducting airway and do not participate
in gas exchange. The alveoli have thin walls and surround capillaries, allowing for efficient
diffusion of gases.
2. A nurse is assessing a client for adequate oxygenation. Which of the following is the most
accurate indicator of oxygenation status?
,A. Respiratory rate
B. Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
C. Skin color
D. Level of consciousness
Correct Answer: B. Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
Rationale: Oxygen saturation (SpO₂) directly reflects the amount of oxygen carried by
hemoglobin and is the most accurate non-invasive indicator of oxygenation status. While
respiratory rate, skin color, and level of consciousness can suggest hypoxia, they are less specific
and may be influenced by other factors.
3. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a prescription for oxygen
therapy. Which oxygen delivery device should the nurse use to provide a precise concentration
of oxygen?
A. Simple face mask
B. Nasal cannula
C. Venturi mask
D. Non-rebreather mask
, Correct Answer: C. Venturi mask
Rationale: The Venturi mask is the most accurate device for delivering a specific oxygen
concentration (FiO₂). This is critical for clients with COPD because providing too much oxygen
can suppress their respiratory drive. The nasal cannula and simple face mask provide variable
concentrations depending on the client's breathing pattern.
4. A nurse is caring for a client with COPD who is receiving oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
Which assessment finding should alert the nurse to a potential problem?
A. Oxygen saturation of 92%
B. Respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min
C. Client is difficult to arouse
D. Client reports decreased dyspnea
Correct Answer: C. Client is difficult to arouse
Rationale: A client with COPD may rely on hypoxia to drive respiration. Excessive oxygen can
suppress the respiratory drive, leading to carbon dioxide retention and decreased level of
consciousness. Being difficult to arouse indicates possible hypercapnia (elevated CO₂) and
requires immediate intervention.
Guide & 150 Practice Questions Fortis College
2026/2027
1. A nurse is reviewing the anatomy of the respiratory system. Which structure is the primary
site of gas exchange?
A. Bronchi
B. Trachea
C. Alveoli
D. Larynx
Correct Answer: C. Alveoli
Rationale: The alveoli are the primary site of gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) in the
lungs. The bronchi, trachea, and larynx are part of the conducting airway and do not participate
in gas exchange. The alveoli have thin walls and surround capillaries, allowing for efficient
diffusion of gases.
2. A nurse is assessing a client for adequate oxygenation. Which of the following is the most
accurate indicator of oxygenation status?
,A. Respiratory rate
B. Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
C. Skin color
D. Level of consciousness
Correct Answer: B. Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
Rationale: Oxygen saturation (SpO₂) directly reflects the amount of oxygen carried by
hemoglobin and is the most accurate non-invasive indicator of oxygenation status. While
respiratory rate, skin color, and level of consciousness can suggest hypoxia, they are less specific
and may be influenced by other factors.
3. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a prescription for oxygen
therapy. Which oxygen delivery device should the nurse use to provide a precise concentration
of oxygen?
A. Simple face mask
B. Nasal cannula
C. Venturi mask
D. Non-rebreather mask
, Correct Answer: C. Venturi mask
Rationale: The Venturi mask is the most accurate device for delivering a specific oxygen
concentration (FiO₂). This is critical for clients with COPD because providing too much oxygen
can suppress their respiratory drive. The nasal cannula and simple face mask provide variable
concentrations depending on the client's breathing pattern.
4. A nurse is caring for a client with COPD who is receiving oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
Which assessment finding should alert the nurse to a potential problem?
A. Oxygen saturation of 92%
B. Respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min
C. Client is difficult to arouse
D. Client reports decreased dyspnea
Correct Answer: C. Client is difficult to arouse
Rationale: A client with COPD may rely on hypoxia to drive respiration. Excessive oxygen can
suppress the respiratory drive, leading to carbon dioxide retention and decreased level of
consciousness. Being difficult to arouse indicates possible hypercapnia (elevated CO₂) and
requires immediate intervention.
