Geriatric Changes and Aging · NCLEX Exam

Which pulmonary change represents normal aging?

  1. An increase in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)
  2. Greater chest-wall compliance making breathing easier
  3. Blunted ventilatory response to hypoxia and reduced gas-exchange area
  4. Enhanced ventilation in response to exercise demand
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Blunted ventilatory response to hypoxia and reduced gas-exchange area

With aging, chest wall becomes stiffer, respiratory muscle strength declines, and gas-exchange surfaces reduce, reducing FEV₁ and ventilatory responsiveness.

Difficulty: Medium Question 5 of 20

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