Chapter 43: Aviation, High-Altitude, and Space Physiology

Chapter 43: Aviation, High-Altitude, and Space Physiology

Complete Chapter Questions With Answers

Sample Questions Are Posted Below

1. Which of the following sets of data best describe a normal person breathing air at an altitude of 18,000 ft?

pO₂                  pCO₂               Saturation        Arterial pH

7. 500 35                    85%                 4
8. 28 30                    60%                 5
9. 120 25                    99%                 2
10. 33 80                    45%                 0
11. 124 50                    98%                 35

ANS: B

2. An astronaut is exercising in space. He has an increase in cardiac output from 4 to 15 L/min. Blood flow in his lungs would be in ______ at rest and ______ during exercise.
   1. Zone III, zone III
   2. Zone II, zone II
   3. Zone I, zone III
   4. Zone II, zone II

ANS: A

3. A tourist left New York and flew to Switzerland to climb Mt. Blanc in the Swiss Alps, which is 15,771 feet above sea level, barometric pressure = 420 mmHg. His physician had suggested that he take acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor before and throughout his trip. IF he had taken this what would be the expected response?

1. Return of pH to normal
2. Normal ventilation
3. Hypoventilation
4. Normal arterial blood gases

ANS: A

4. Upon their return to earth after two weeks in space, an astronaut will exhibit:

1. An increased blood pressure
2. An increased urinary output
3. A decreased muscle tone
4. An elevated cardiac output
5. A normal blood volume

ANS: C