Anatomy and Physiology

Learn how regulation of breathing controls respiratory rate, depth, oxygen, CO₂, and acid-base balance through neural and chemical signals.

Learn about oxygenation, including physiology, assessment, oxygen therapy, and key concepts for managing hypoxemia in clinical practice.

Learn what the esophagus is and why it matters in respiratory care, from aspiration risk to airway management and ventilation.

Discover how cilia protect the lungs and why mucociliary clearance is essential in respiratory therapy and airway health.

Learn about intercostal muscles, their role in breathing, and why they are essential for ventilation and respiratory care practice.

Learn how the vagus nerve regulates breathing, airway reflexes, and heart rate, and why it is essential in respiratory care and therapy.

Learn what work of breathing is, what increases it, and why it’s important in respiratory care and ventilator management.

Learn what erythrocytes (red blood cells) are, their role in oxygen transport, and why they are important in respiratory care.

Learn what leukocytes are, their role in immune defense, and why white blood cells matter in respiratory care and lung disease.

Learn about dead space ventilation, its types, causes, and clinical significance in respiratory care and critical care settings.