What does atelectasis refer to in a medical context?

Atelectasis is characterized by the collapse of a part or all of a lung, which leads to a decrease in gas exchange efficiency. When the lung collapses, air cannot fill the affected alveoli, resulting in reduced oxygenation of blood and possible respiratory distress. This can occur due to various factors, such as obstruction of the airways, pressure from outside the lung, or inadequate surfactant production, which normally helps keep the alveoli open.

In understanding this condition, it becomes clear that while inflammation, fluid accumulation, and infections can affect lung function and be serious medical concerns, atelectasis specifically relates to the structural collapse of lung tissue. This collapse interrupts normal breathing and can complicate treatment by further reducing lung capacity and impairing oxygen delivery. Thus, recognizing atelectasis as the collapse of lung tissue leading to reduced gas exchange is essential in both nursing practice and broader medical contexts.