Respiratory Physiology

Introduction

In this lab we will learn to use software to stimulate respiratory parameters to gain a better understanding of the physiological concepts of gas exchange, gas transport, work, and acid-base balance. Each simulation deals with a limited number of concepts relevant to the physiology of the respiratory system. The stimulation requires students to enter values defining an experiment. The student first has to download the software from the link provided to do the experiments.

Breathing is necessary for gas exchange and energy release. On inhalation, atmospheric air flows into the alveoli in the lungs. Here, gas exchange takes place and a different mixture of gases is exhaled. The main differences in composition between inhaled and exhaled air are due to the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli. The oxygen absorbed into the red blood cells is transported to all living cells to allow the release of energy from organic molecules obtained from food in aerobic respiration.

Oxygen is also used to treat victims of smoke inhalation. It helps reduce the spasms and swelling that smoke causes in the lungs. Oxygen therapy is one of the most powerful methods of de-toxication in existence. It cleans the blood by destroying bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens without harming healthy tissue. The therapy helps if your child experiences frequent headaches, behavior changes, increased irritability, increased or a slowing of growth.

Methods

First download these programs from the link provided following the directions given in the website.

Module A: Overall Gas Exchange – a two-compartment lung with the possibility of anatomic shunt;

Hypoxia occurs when the body is deprived of the needed oxygen supply. One of the treatments is 100% oxygen therapy. State which physiological variables of this model you expect to be affected by this therapy. Next, use the simulator to test your hypotheses. Finally, use your knowledge of the respiratory...