Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

The upper respiratory tract consists of anatomical structures that are primarily involved in the process of breathing and are located above the level of the larynx. This includes the nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, and larynx. While the larynx and pharynx are directly involved in the upper respiratory system, the trachea and bronchi are considered part of the lower respiratory tract.

The trachea serves as the airway connecting the larynx to the bronchi, but it is classified as part of the lower respiratory tract. The bronchi branch off from the trachea and lead into the lungs, further placing them within the lower respiratory system. Understanding this classification is essential as it helps differentiate the roles and locations of these respiratory structures during physiological processes such as respiration, gas exchange, and the passage of air. Recognizing these distinctions is critical in medical situations, including diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions.