Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Test CHT Hyperbaric Contraindications and Complications 2

Question 1

A patient experiences a tonic-clonic seizure at 2.4 ATA during HBO. The immediate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Remove the oxygen mask and protect the airway

Answer

Removing the oxygen mask stops further O2 delivery; the seizure typically self-terminates, and rapid decompression during a seizure risks pulmonary barotrauma.

Question 2

Sinus squeeze (sinus barotrauma) is best prevented by:

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the patient is free of upper respiratory congestion before treatment

Answer

Sinus barotrauma occurs when blocked sinuses cannot equalize; treating or deferring patients with congestion prevents this complication.

Question 3

Visual changes (myopia) experienced by patients after multiple HBO treatments are:

Accepted Answer

Usually reversible within weeks to months after completing therapy

Answer

HBO-induced myopia results from temporary lens changes and typically resolves within 6–8 weeks after completing treatments.

Question 4

Which relative contraindication requires special precaution because trapped gas may expand on ascent?

Accepted Answer

History of thoracic surgery with blebs or bullae

Answer

Pulmonary blebs or bullae can rupture during decompression as trapped gas expands, risking pneumothorax or arterial gas embolism.

Question 5

Confinement anxiety (claustrophobia) in a hyperbaric patient is classified as:

Accepted Answer

A relative contraindication that can often be managed with anxiolytics

Answer

Claustrophobia is a relative contraindication that can frequently be managed with anxiolytics, patient education, and acclimation tours of the chamber.

Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Test Practice Test

Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Test Practice Test

Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Test CHT Hyperbaric Contraindications and Complications 2