A 50-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of chronic obstructive lung
disease. On review of the chart, the nurse noted the patient is both hypoxic and has an elevated
carbon dioxide level. When examining the patient, the nurse notes an increased respiratory effort
and use of accessory muscles.

1 . What is compliance, resistance, and residual volume as it relates to C CPD.

2. In patients with chronic obstructive disease, there is a decreased surface area for
diffusion. Explain how that will impact diffusion and how that relates to the hypoxia
and elevated carbon dioxide.

3 . Explain the difference between the function of the central and peripheral
chemoreceptors.