A client who was a victim of a house fire is coughing. The nurse reali

A client who was a victim of a house fire is coughing. The nurse realizes that the purpose of the cough is to

1. improve oxygenation.
2. remove irritants from the nasal passages.
3. remove irritants from the trachea or bronchi.
4. close the glottis.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Coughing does not improve oxygenation.
Rationale 2: Sneezing removes irritants from the nasal passages.
Rationale 3: The trachea and bronchi are lined with mucosal epithelium. These cells produce a thin layer of mucus that traps pathogens and microscopic particulate matter. These foreign particles are then swept upward toward the larynx and throat by cilia. The cough reflex is triggered by irritants in the larynx, trachea, or bronchi.
Rationale 4: Swallowing closes the glottis.