Unit 9 Introduction

The central function of the Respiratory System is moving oxygen into the body and carbon dioxide out. This is performed through ventilation (mechanical movement of air) and respiration (exchange of gas across a membrane). Oxygen is essential for the survival of cells throughout the body, with brain and heart muscle cells being particularly vulnerable to hypoxia (low oxygen), only surviving a few minutes. Oxygen is continually made into carbon dioxide by cell metabolic processes, and that carbon dioxide must be removed.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you will be able to:

• Name the word parts used to describe the structures and diseases of the respiratory system.
• Recognize abbreviations used to describe diseases and treatments associated with the respiratory system.