Aspiration is most likely to occur in the right mainstem bronchus because it:
A) Extends vertically from the trachea.
B) Is narrower than the left mainstem bronchus.
C) Comes into contact with food and drink first.
D) Is located at the site where the bronchi bifurcate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The right mainstem bronchus extends from the trachea more vertically than the left mainstem bronchus; therefore aspirated fluids or foreign particles tend to enter the right lung rather than the left.The size of both mainstems is equal.The trachea comes into contact with food and drink first,and the carina is the site where the bronchi bifurcate.

Aspiration Is Most Likely to Occur in the Right Mainstem