A nursing student is taking a pathophysiology examination. Which of the following factors would the student correctly identify as contributing to the underlying pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ? Choose all that apply.

A. Mucus secretions that block airways

B. Inflamed airways that obstruct airflow

E. Overinflated alveoli that impair gas exchange

Explanation:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is considered a very dangerous illness, affecting over thirty two million people in the United States. It has a high mortality rate and is considered the third leading cause of death in the United States. Patients suffering from COPD usually have symptoms of damaged alveoli which impairs exchange of gas, chronic bronchitis or severe mucus secretion which blocks airways and asthma or inflamed airways obstructing the flow of air.