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.
Only certain situations and reasons for leave are covered by the FMLA. 1  Leave for the employeeâs own serious health condition. Not every medical ailment is covered; see Serious Health Conditions Under the FMLA.  Leave to care for a family member with a serious health condition. Leave is also available to take care of a family member whose health condition qualifies under the FMLA, but an employee may take time off to care for only a parent, spouse, or child under this provision.