CHS Patient Assessment & Evaluation 3

Question 1

Which patient scenario represents an ABSOLUTE contraindication to hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Accepted Answer

Untreated pneumothorax

Answer

Untreated pneumothorax is an absolute contraindication because pressurization can convert it to a life-threatening tension pneumothorax.

Question 2

When assessing a wound for HBO therapy candidacy, which wound characteristic indicates the BEST potential response?

Accepted Answer

Wound with transcutaneous oxygen measurement (TCOM) of 40 mmHg on room air that rises to >200 mmHg with normobaric oxygen

Answer

A TCOM that responds robustly to oxygen challenge indicates viable tissue with potentially reversible ischemia, predicting good HBO response.

Question 3

A patient scheduled for HBO is found to have a fever of 38.9°C (102°F). What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Postpone treatment and notify the physician

Answer

Fever lowers the seizure threshold, increasing CNS oxygen toxicity risk, so treatment should be postponed until the patient is afebrile.

Question 4

During the initial patient assessment for HBO therapy, the technologist notes the patient has a pacemaker. What is the next step?

Accepted Answer

Verify with the cardiologist that the device is rated as pressure-proof

Answer

Most modern pacemakers are pressure-safe, but confirmation from the manufacturer and cardiologist is required before proceeding.

Question 5

Which pulmonary function finding would be MOST concerning when evaluating a patient for HBO therapy?

Accepted Answer

Presence of bullae on chest X-ray

Answer

Pulmonary bullae can trap gas and rupture during decompression, creating a pneumothorax, making this a significant contraindication concern.

(CHS) Certified Hypertension Specialist Practice Test