Saunders Respiratory Practice

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Prepare for the Saunders Respiratory Exam with confidence. Engage with interactive quizzes and in-depth study materials. Build your expertise in respiratory therapy and boost your chances of passing the exam.

Practice this question and more.

Which of the following best describes the function of surfactant in the lungs?

It protects the lung tissue from infections.
It helps keep the alveoli open and reduces surface tension.
It assists in the gas exchange process in blood.
It filters dust and debris from inhaled air.

The correct answer is: It helps keep the alveoli open and reduces surface tension.

Surfactant plays a crucial role in the functionality of the lungs by helping to reduce surface tension within the alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs. By lowering surface tension, surfactant prevents the alveoli from collapsing during exhalation, ensuring that they remain open and ready for the next inhalation. This function is vital for maintaining adequate gas exchange and efficient breathing. The presence of surfactant increases lung compliance, making it easier for the lungs to expand and contract during respiration. Overall, its primary role is to facilitate normal respiratory mechanics and promote optimal lung function.