OXYGENATION

Oxygen, a clear, odorless gas that constitutes

approximately 21% of the air we breathe, is necessary
for proper functioning of all living cells. The absence of
oxygen can lead to cellular, tissue, and organism death.
Cellular metabolism produces carbon dioxide, which
must be eliminated from the body to maintain normal
acid–base balance. Delivery of oxygen and removal of
carbon dioxide require the integration of several
systems including the hematologic, cardiovascular, and
respiratory systems. The respiratory system provides the
essential first process in this integrated system, that is,
movement and transfer of gases between the
atmosphere and the blood (Patton & Tibodeau, 2010).
Impaired function of the system can significantly affect
our ability to breathe, transport gases, and participate in
everyday activities.
Respiration is the process of gas exchange between the
individual and the environment and involves four
components:
1. Ventilation or breathing, the movement of air in and
out of the lungs as we inhale and exhale
2. Alveolar-capillary gas exchange, which involves the
diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the
alveoli and the pulmonary capillaries
3. Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the
tissues and the lungs
4. Movement of oxygen and carbon dioxide between
the systemic capillaries and the tissues.
The structure of the respiratory system facilitates gas
exchange and protects the body from foreign matter
such as particulates and pathogens. The four processes
of the respiratory system include pulmonary ventilation,
alveolar gas exchange, transport of oxygen and carbon
dioxide, and systemic diffusion.