Type II avleolar epithelial cells secrete pulmonary surfactant to lower the surface tension of water, which helps prevent airway collapse. Reinflation of the alveoli following exhalation is made easier by pulmonary surfactant. The surfactant reduces surface tension within all alveoli through hydrophilic and hydrophobic forces. Insufficient pulmonary surfactant in the alveoli can contribute to atelectasis (collapse of part or all of the lung).
There are 4 basic situations in which you can invoke and use FMLA leave: 1  Childbirth and newborn care. 2  Adoption or accepting a child for foster care. 3  Caring for a family member (a son, daughter, spouse, or your parent) who has a serious health condition.  Undergoing care and treatment for your own serious health condition.
Although FMLA leave is unpaid, an employee can receive short-term disability or long-term disability benefits while on FMLA leave. And, in fact, many employers require you to use your allotted FMLA time while you're on disability. For many disabled employees, FMLA is the most important form of job protection they enjoy. Your employer may not terminate you if you are on FMLA leave as long as you don't go over 12 weeks of FMLA leave per year. When you return from FMLA leave, your employer must employ you in your former position or one that is substantially similar.