JBL EMT Practice Exam

In which situation would treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) most likely be contraindicated?

1. Conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%

2. Difficulty breathing, two-word dyspnea, and tachycardia

3. Pulmonary edema, history of hypertension, and anxiety

4. Shortness of breath and a blood pressure of 76/56 mm Hg

The correct answer is: Conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%

Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) would be contraindicated in a conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%. This is because a CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air to the lungs, which can increase the oxygen levels in the blood. In a patient with an oxygen saturation of only 85%, administering CPAP could lead to hyperoxia which can cause damage to the lungs (e.g. oxygen toxicity). Option B is incorrect because difficulty breathing and tachycardia are common indications for CPAP treatment, not contraindications. Option C is incorrect because although pulmonary edema, history of hypertension, and anxiety may make it more challenging to administer CPAP, they are not absolute contraindications. Option D is incorrect because CPAP can actually help improve blood pressure by increasing oxygen levels and reducing the work of breathing.