What is the most likely cause of chronic bronchitis in a ...

[ARLKQ]

What is the most likely cause of chronic bronchitis in a 25-year-old?
 
  a. Chronic asthma
  b. Air pollution
  c. Cigarette smoke
  d. Recurrent pneumonias

Question 2

A 60-year-old with a 25-year history of smoking is diagnosed with emphysema. Assessment shows an increased anterior-posterior chest diameter. The nurse attributes this finding to:
 
  a. air trapping.
  b. decreased inspiratory reserve volumes.
  c. increased flow rates.
  d. alveolar destruction.

[nanny]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The most likely cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoke. Chronic bronchitis in such a pa-tient is not commonly associated with chronic asthma. Air pollution and recurrent infections may contribute, but smoking is the most common cause.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Air trapping, not increased flow rates, expands the thorax, putting the respiratory muscles at a mechanical disadvantage. Neither decreased inspiratory reserve volumes nor alveolar destruction is associated with an increased anterior-posterior chest diameter.