What is the recommended treatment for hypoxia during rapid decompression?

What is the recommended treatment for hypoxia during rapid decompression?

• A. Monitor patient vitals
• B. Administer oxygen
• C. Notify captain and contact MedLink
• D. Provide salt tablets

Answer: (B)

Hypoxia during rapid decompression is addressed most effectively by administering supplemental oxygen. Giving high-concentration oxygen raises the fraction of inspired oxygen, increases the alveolar PO2, and improves the diffusion of oxygen into the blood, quickly restoring arterial oxygenation and tissue oxygen delivery. This is the fastest, most direct way to counter the drop in available oxygen when cabin pressure falls. While monitoring vitals and communicating with the captain or medical support are important follow-ups, they don’t reverse hypoxia as promptly as providing oxygen. Salt tablets have no role in treating hypoxia.

Hypoxia during rapid decompression is addressed most effectively by administering supplemental oxygen. Giving high-concentration oxygen raises the fraction of inspired oxygen, increases the alveolar PO2, and improves the diffusion of oxygen into the blood, quickly restoring arterial oxygenation and tissue oxygen delivery. This is the fastest, most direct way to counter the drop in available oxygen when cabin pressure falls. While monitoring vitals and communicating with the captain or medical support are important follow-ups, they don’t reverse hypoxia as promptly as providing oxygen. Salt tablets have no role in treating hypoxia.