Wilderness and Rescue Medicine 8th Edition

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Section II: Critical Body Systems

Chapter 5 Review: The Respiratory System

• The respiratory system is responsible for bringing outside air into the alveoli of the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood can occur. • Problems with the respiratory system are described as respiratory distress, respiratory failure, and respiratory arrest. Distress is difficulty breathing. Failure is distress with inadequate oxygenation. Arrest is complete cessation of breathing. • The generic treatment for respiratory system problems is abbreviated PROP: Position for best ven- tilation and airway control, Reassurance and coaching for efficient ventilation, Oxygen by mask or cannula if available, and Positive pressure ventilation if necessary. • The five basic components of the respiratory system include the upper airway, lower airways, alveoli, chest wall and diaphragm, and nervous system drive. Identifying the component in which the prob- lem lies will often identify the specific treatment for the problem. • Respiratory distress is suspected or anticipated with mechanisms including upper airway obstruction, lower airway constriction, fluid in the alveoli, chest wall trauma, and brain failure. • Respiratory distress that you cannot fix in the field is an emergency.