A 60-year-old patient diagnosed with emphysema experiences a rapid and pounding heart, diz-ziness, and fatigue with exertion
Which respiratory assessment findings indicate the respiratory system is compensating for the increased oxygen demand?
a. Bronchoconstriction
b. Increased rate and depth of breathing
c. Dyspnea
d. Activation of the renin-angiotensin re-sponse
ANS: B
The rate and depth of breathing increase in an effort to increase oxygen availability accompanied by an increase in the release of oxygen from hemoglobin. Bronchodilation occurs, not con-striction. Dyspnea is not a compensatory mechanism but a side effect of the body's attempt to increase oxygen. The respiratory system does not activate the renin-angiotensin response; the kidneys are involved.
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