North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Study for the North Carolina EMT Exam with our engaging resources. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions designed to help you grasp critical concepts with hints and explanations. Ace your examination and take the first step towards a rewarding career in emergency medical services!

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What key function does the pleura serve?

To produce red blood cells
To protect and lubricate the lungs
To assist in digestion
To filter respiratory air

The correct answer is: To protect and lubricate the lungs

The pleura primarily serves to protect and lubricate the lungs. It comprises two layers: the visceral pleura, which covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest wall. Between these two layers is the pleural cavity, which contains pleural fluid. This fluid plays a crucial role in reducing friction between the lungs and the chest wall during breathing movements, allowing the lungs to expand and contract smoothly. The lubrication provided by the pleura is essential for efficient respiratory mechanics and helps prevent irritation or damage to lung tissues. Additionally, the pleura helps to maintain a pressure gradient necessary for lung inflation, aiding in overall respiratory function. Other options, such as the production of red blood cells and assistance in digestion, are functions associated with other organs and systems in the body, not the pleura. The role of filtering respiratory air is typically fulfilled by the structures within the respiratory tract, like the nasal passages and bronchial tubes, rather than the pleura itself.