Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What muscles are actively involved in the inhalation process?

1. Diaphragm and abdominal muscles

2. External intercostals and pectoral muscles

3. Neck muscles and diaphragm

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The inhalation process primarily involves the diaphragm and the external intercostal muscles, which are crucial for expanding the thoracic cavity and facilitating airflow into the lungs. The diaphragm, as the primary muscle of respiration, contracts and moves downward, while the external intercostals lift the rib cage, further increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity. While the abdominal muscles mainly contribute to exhalation, they do not play a direct role in active inhalation. However, they can support the respiratory system by helping return the diaphragm and rib cage to their resting state after inhalation. Neck muscles, particularly scalene and sternocleidomastoid, can assist in inhalation, especially during vigorous breathing or in cases of respiratory distress when additional inspiratory effort is required. Their contraction elevates the first rib and sternum, thereby contributing to increased thoracic volume. Pectoral muscles primarily engage during forced inhalation, as they activate the accessory muscles of breathing. Although they are more involved in strenuous efforts rather than routine breathing, they still have a supporting role in inhalatory mechanics. Considering all the factors, it is accurate to recognize that multiple muscle groups can contribute to the inhalation process, particularly during various levels of respiratory demand, making the selection