What are juxtacapillary receptors also known as?

Study for the Barron/Elsevier CCRN Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

Juxtacapillary receptors are commonly referred to as pulmonary C-fiber receptors. These receptors are located in the alveolar walls near the pulmonary capillaries and are sensitive to various stimuli, including those associated with pulmonary congestion, such as increased pulmonary interstitial fluid. When activated, they can trigger a reflex response that may include changes in respiratory patterns, such as rapid shallow breathing or sensations of breathlessness, which is particularly important in conditions like heart failure where fluid accumulation in the lungs may occur.

The term "J receptors" is indeed sometimes used colloquially among healthcare professionals, but the more precise term originating from the physiological literature is pulmonary C-fiber receptors. Understanding these receptors is critical for managing patients with respiratory distress and recognizing their unique role in pulmonary physiology.

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