NUR 2063 Pathophysiology Exam *Q&A*
|Verified Study Set| 2025/2024
Define pathophysiology and its importance in nursing practice.
Pathophysiology is the study of the functional changes that occur in the body as a result of a
disease or injury. It is crucial in nursing practice as it helps nurses understand disease
mechanisms, recognize signs and symptoms, and provide appropriate care.
What are the main characteristics of cellular injury?
Cellular injury is characterized by alterations in cellular structure and function, including cell
swelling, membrane permeability changes, and organelle damage. If the injury is severe or
prolonged, it can lead to cell death through necrosis or apoptosis.
Explain the compensatory mechanisms the body employs in response to heart failure.
In heart failure, the body activates compensatory mechanisms such as increased heart rate,
vasoconstriction, and fluid retention to maintain cardiac output and blood pressure. However,
these mechanisms can lead to further cardiac workload and worsening heart function over time.
Describe the pathophysiological changes that occur in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
COPD is characterized by chronic inflammation and obstruction of the airways, leading to
airflow limitation. Pathophysiological changes include destruction of alveoli (emphysema),
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,mucus hypersecretion, and bronchial wall thickening, resulting in decreased gas exchange and
respiratory distress.
What are the risk factors associated with the development of atherosclerosis?
Risk factors for atherosclerosis include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels,
smoking, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of cardiovascular disease, all
contributing to endothelial damage and plaque formation in the arteries.
Explain the mechanisms of pain perception and the factors influencing it.
Pain perception involves the transmission of nociceptive signals through sensory neurons to
the central nervous system. Factors influencing pain include emotional state, cultural
background, previous experiences, and the context in which pain is experienced, affecting both
the perception and response to pain.
What are the key features of diabetes insipidus and its underlying causes?
Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive thirst and urination due to insufficient
production or action of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Causes can be central (neurogenic) due to
hypothalamic or pituitary damage, or nephrogenic due to kidney insensitivity to ADH.
Discuss the implications of liver failure on the body’s metabolism.
Liver failure leads to impaired metabolism of nutrients, drugs, and toxins, resulting in
accumulation of toxic substances, altered glucose metabolism (hypoglycemia), decreased protein
synthesis (leading to coagulopathy), and disrupted fat metabolism (causing hyperlipidemia).
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,Describe the role of cytokines in the inflammatory response.
Cytokines are signaling molecules that mediate the inflammatory response by promoting cell
communication, recruiting immune cells to sites of injury or infection, and regulating the
immune response. They play a key role in both initiating and resolving inflammation.
What are the clinical manifestations of acute kidney injury (AKI)?
Clinical manifestations of AKI include a rapid decline in kidney function, oliguria (decreased
urine output), fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances (hyperkalemia), metabolic acidosis, and
uremic symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status.
Explain the concept of homeostasis and its relevance to pathophysiology.
Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite
external changes. Disruption of homeostasis can lead to disease processes, and understanding
this concept helps healthcare providers identify and manage imbalances in patients effectively.
What are the primary pathological changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and
neurofibrillary tangles, leading to neuronal loss, synaptic dysfunction, and brain atrophy. These
changes result in cognitive decline, memory loss, and functional impairment.
Describe the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying asthma.
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, Asthma involves airway inflammation, bronchial hyperreactivity, and reversible airflow
obstruction. Triggers can include allergens, exercise, and irritants, leading to
bronchoconstriction, mucus production, and airway remodeling over time.
What is the significance of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in regulating blood
pressure?
RAAS is crucial in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Activation of this system
leads to vasoconstriction, increased sodium reabsorption, and fluid retention, which raises blood
pressure. Dysregulation can contribute to hypertension and heart failure.
Explain the changes in respiratory function that occur with pneumonia.
Pneumonia causes inflammation and consolidation of lung tissue, leading to impaired gas
exchange, decreased lung compliance, and increased work of breathing. Symptoms include
cough, fever, dyspnea, and chest pain, with decreased oxygenation and potential respiratory
failure in severe cases.
What are the common complications associated with diabetes mellitus?
Common complications of diabetes mellitus include cardiovascular disease, neuropathy,
nephropathy, retinopathy, and poor wound healing. These complications arise from chronic
hyperglycemia, leading to microvascular and macrovascular damage over time.
Describe the impact of obesity on metabolic syndrome.
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