Summary Portage Learning NURS 251 Module 5 Introduction to Pulmonology

Portage Learning NURS 251 Module 5 Introduction to Pulmonology The main function of the respiratory system is two-fold: (1) to deliver oxygen to the cells of the body and (2) remove carbon dioxide from the body. This is accomplished through the combination of the upper respiratory tract working in communication with the lower respiratory tract. A diagram of the anatomy of the respiratory tract is shown in Figure 5.1. The upper respiratory tract (URT) is outside the chest cavity and includes the nose, and nasopharynx (down to the larynx). The lower respiratory tract (LRT) includes the organs within the chest including the trachea, bronchial tree, and lungs. When a person breathes in air, oxygen diffuses across the alveoli (microscopic sacs) in the lungs where it is exchanged for carbon dioxide. The diffused oxygen is then taken to the rest of the body through the circulatory system.