AEMCA Practice Exam

What is an indication to administer oxygen at high concentrations due to suspected carbon monoxide exposure?

1. Chronic respiratory disease

2. Recent head trauma

3. Recent scuba diving

4. Upper airway burn

The correct answer is: Upper airway burn

Administering oxygen at high concentrations is critical in cases of suspected carbon monoxide exposure due to the way carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. In cases of upper airway burns, there is a risk of inhalation injury and potential airway obstruction, which can lead to significant tissue hypoxia. Providing high concentrations of oxygen helps to displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin and also supports the oxygenation of tissues that may be compromised due to trauma. The other options, while they represent medical concerns, do not specifically indicate a need for high-concentration oxygen in the context of carbon monoxide poisoning. Chronic respiratory disease may complicate oxygen delivery but does not necessitate high-flow oxygen specifically for carbon monoxide exposure. Recent head trauma may require different considerations for airway management rather than high-flow oxygen. Recent scuba diving could lead to decompression sickness or other issues that might require different treatment. Thus, the presence of an upper airway burn clearly links to the need for immediate high-concentration oxygen to mitigate the effects of carbon monoxide and support overall oxygenation.