CHT Hyperbaric Contraindications and Complications Flashcards
6 cards from real Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CHT Hyperbaric Contraindications and Complications flashcards as text
Which condition is considered an absolute contraindication to hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Answer: Untreated pneumothorax
Untreated pneumothorax is the only absolute contraindication to HBO therapy because pressurization can cause tension pneumothorax.
Oxygen toxicity affecting the central nervous system (CNS) in the hyperbaric environment is also known as:
Answer: Paul Bert effect
The Paul Bert effect refers to CNS oxygen toxicity, characterized by seizures, while the Lorrain Smith effect refers to pulmonary oxygen toxicity.
Which of the following is a sign of middle ear barotrauma in a hyperbaric patient?
Answer: Ear pain and hearing loss during compression
Middle ear barotrauma presents as ear pain and possible hearing loss during compression when the Eustachian tube fails to equalize pressure.
What is the most common complication of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Answer: Middle ear barotrauma
Middle ear barotrauma is the most common complication of HBO therapy due to Eustachian tube dysfunction during pressurization.
A patient on doxorubicin (Adriamycin) chemotherapy requires HBO. What is the primary concern?
Answer: Increased pulmonary oxygen toxicity risk
Doxorubicin combined with HBO significantly increases the risk of pulmonary oxygen toxicity and is a relative contraindication.
Which symptom indicates possible pulmonary oxygen toxicity (Lorrain Smith effect) in a patient receiving multiple HBO sessions?
Answer: Substernal chest pain and cough between sessions
Substernal burning chest pain and cough are hallmark symptoms of pulmonary oxygen toxicity from cumulative oxygen exposure.
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