AEMCA Practice Exam

In which condition should high concentration oxygen be administered?

1. Diabetes

2. Severe headache

3. Cardiopulmonary arrest

4. Chest infection

The correct answer is: Cardiopulmonary arrest

Administering high concentration oxygen is particularly crucial in the case of cardiopulmonary arrest because the body is in a state of critical need for oxygen to support cellular functions and to potentially revive the patient. During cardiopulmonary arrest, blood flow is minimized, and the tissues, especially the brain and heart, are at risk of severe damage due to hypoxia (lack of oxygen). Providing high concentration oxygen helps to increase the oxygen level in the blood and can improve the chances of resuscitation. In contrast, while other conditions such as diabetes, severe headache, or chest infections may require oxygen therapy under specific circumstances, they do not present the same immediate, life-threatening need for high concentration oxygen as seen in cardiopulmonary arrest. For instance, diabetes might typically be managed through insulin and lifestyle modifications, whereas headaches could be attributed to various causes that may not directly relate to oxygen levels. Chest infections may also lead to hypoxia and may require oxygen but typically do not necessitate high concentration delivery unless the patient is experiencing severe respiratory distress. Thus, high concentration oxygen is primarily indicated in situations where rapid restoration of oxygen levels is critical, such as in the case of cardiopulmonary arrest.