Which statement is true for Lungs?

Appeared in: P.CHO-2019

Explanation

The lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system, and their internal structure is defined by the bronchial tree.
The trachea divides into the right and left main bronchi, which enter the lungs.
Inside the lungs, the bronchi branch repeatedly into smaller tubes called bronchioles.
These bronchioles conduct air to the alveoli, the tiny air sacs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.
Therefore, the presence of bronchi and bronchioles is a fundamental and true characteristic of the lungs.

Option A: This statement is factually incorrect. The right lung is larger and is divided into three lobes: superior, middle, and inferior.
Option C: The pericardium is the serous membrane that encloses the heart, not the lungs.
Option D: The lungs are located in the thoracic cavity, superior to (above) the diaphragm. The base of the lungs rests directly on the superior surface of the diaphragm.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomical features of the human lungs as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the branching of the bronchi is crucial for procedures like bronchoscopy and for interpreting chest X-rays to locate pathologies.
The anatomical difference between the right and left main bronchus has significant clinical implications for aspiration. The right bronchus is wider and more vertical, making it the more common site for inhaled foreign bodies to lodge.
Nursing care for patients at risk of aspiration (e.g., those with dysphagia or altered consciousness) includes positioning them upright during feeding and being vigilant for signs of respiratory distress, which might indicate aspiration into the right lung.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing basic knowledge of respiratory anatomy.
First, read the question carefully to understand what is being asked: identify the one true statement about the lungs.
Evaluate each option systematically against your knowledge of anatomy.
Option A: Recall the number of lobes in each lung. The right has three, the left has two. So, A is false.
Option B: Recall the internal structure of the lungs. The bronchial tree (bronchi and bronchioles) is the primary structure. So, B is likely true.
Option C: Recall the membranes covering thoracic organs. The pleura covers the lungs, and the pericardium covers the heart. So, C is false.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q5p27_Y11MUV03RfBV2gKn

E6 Nursing Vital Signs p. 62-64

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 706-708

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 100-102

Practise the full P.CHO-2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.