Gastric distention during ventilation can result in which of the following?

• A. Induce vomiting
• B. Decrease lung capacity
• C. Increase lung capacity
• D. No effect on lungs

Answer: (B)

Gastric distention during ventilation reduces how much the lungs can expand. When air fills the stomach, the stomach enlarges and pushes up on the diaphragm, limiting diaphragmatic movement and lowering chest wall compliance. This shrinks inspiratory capacity and overall lung volumes, so tidal volume and effective ventilation decrease. While vomiting can be a consequence, the direct impact on the lungs is a decrease in lung capacity.