Cells continually use oxygen (O2) for the metabolic reactions that release energy from nutrient molecules and generate energy as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). At the same time these reactions release carbon dioxide (CO2). Since an excessive amount of CO2 produces acidity that is toxic to cells, CO2 must be eliminated quickly and effi ciently. The cardiovascular system and the respiratory system cooperate to supply cells and tissues with O2 and eliminate CO2. The respiratory system facilitates gas exchange, intake of O2 and elimination of CO2, whereas the cardiovascular system transports the gases in the blood between the lungs and body cells. Failure of either system has the same effect on the body: disruption of homeostasis and rapid death of cells from oxygen starvation and accumulation of waste products.
In addition to its role in gas exchange, the respiratory system also contains receptors for the sense of smell, fi lters inspired air, produces sounds and assists in the elimination of waste. Since nurses are often responsible for the ventilation of patients in a variety of treatment settings, they should understand how
the lungs function in gas exchange and know how their structure is optimized for this purpose.
Sources
Foundations of Nursing: An Integrated Approach
Nurses! Test Yourself in Pathophysiology