These CRNA practice questions target basics. The complete CRNA deck holds 1050 flashcards, 30 of them dedicated to this topic. Study the free samples below, then unlock the whole collection for a one-time $7.
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During manual ventilation, an SRNA squeezes the reservoir bag to deliver a breath to the patient. Which gas law explains the relationship between the decreasing volume of the bag and the resulting increase in pressure directed toward the patient?
Show answer →Boyle's Law (P1V1 = P2V2). This law states that at a constant temperature, the pressure of a given mass of an ideal gas is inversely proportional to its volume. Clinical Applications: 1. Squeezing the reservoir bag. 2. Spontaneous breathing: Diaphragm contraction increases thoracic volume, which decreases intrapulmonary pressure, causing air to flow in. 3. Measurement of functional residual capacity (FRC) via body plethysmography. NBCRNA Exam Tip: Boyle's Law is the only inverse relationship among the three primary laws. Remember: Boyle's = Bag/Bellows/Breathing. Common distractor: Charles's Law, which involves temperature and volume.
A CRNA is estimating the remaining time for an E-cylinder of Oxygen. The gauge reads 1000 psi. If the flow is 2 L/min, approximately how long will the tank last? Which gas law justifies this estimation?
Show answer →Boyle's Law (P1V1 = P2V2). We assume the gas expands from the high pressure of the cylinder (P1) to the atmospheric pressure (P2), allowing us to calculate the available volume (V2). Shortcut Calculation: Full tank = 660 L at 2000 psi. 1000 psi is 1/2 of a tank = 330 L. 330 L / 2 L/min = 165 minutes. Clinical Pearl: The 0.3 factor for Oxygen (1000 psi x 0.3 = 300L) is a standard CRNA shortcut derived from Boyle's Law. NBCRNA expects you to calculate remaining time/volume for O2, N2O, and Air. Note: N2O does NOT follow this until the liquid is gone (at 745 psi).
During an emergent intubation for status asthmaticus, the patient exhibits significant airway resistance. If the flow becomes turbulent, which physical property of the gas becomes the primary determinant of flow rate instead of viscosity?
Show answer →Density. In laminar flow (Reynolds < 2000), viscosity is the primary determinant (Poiseuille’s Law). In turbulent flow (Reynolds > 4000), density becomes the primary determinant. This is the physiological basis for using Heliox (Helium/Oxygen mixture); Helium is less dense than Nitrogen, which reduces the work of breathing in turbulent conditions like upper airway obstruction. Exam Strategy: Distinguish between Poiseuille (laminar/viscosity) and Graham's Law/Turbulence (density).
On a traditional Thorpe tube flowmeter, why is the tube tapered (wider at the top)? Which physical principle explains why the float stays suspended?
Show answer →The tube is tapered to allow for different flow dynamics. At low flows (bottom), the orifice is narrow, and flow is laminar (governed by Poiseuille’s Law/Viscosity). At high flows (top), the orifice is wider, and flow becomes turbulent (governed by Density). The float stays suspended when the upward force of the gas flow equals the downward force of gravity on the float. NBCRNA focus: Know that flowmeters are calibrated for specific gases because of density and viscosity differences.
To minimize the risk of airway fire, what is the maximum recommended FiO2 and what gas must be avoided as an oxidizer?
Show answer →Maintain FiO2 <30% (or the lowest tolerated to maintain SpO2 >90%). Avoid Nitrous Oxide (N2O) because it supports combustion as readily as oxygen. Use medical air as the diluent. Exam Tip: NBCRNA focuses on the Fire Triad: Fuel (ETT), Oxidizer (O2/N2O), and Ignition (Laser). Removing N2O is a critical safety step.
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Try 30 free CRNA cards firstThe full CRNA deck contains 1050 flashcards, and 30 of them focus on basics. This page shows 5 free samples.
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