A 65-year-old patient with a history of congestive heart failure (CHF) is being transported by air to a specialized cardiac center. During the ascent, the patient starts experiencing increased dyspnea and a marked decrease in oxygen saturation. Which physiologic factor related to altitude changes is most likely contributing to the patient's symptoms?
During air transport, the decrease in atmospheric pressure at higher altitudes leads to a reduction in the partial pressure of oxygen. This can cause hypoxemia, particularly in patients with underlying respiratory or cardiac conditions like CHF. The body’s ability to uptake oxygen diminishes, exacerbating dyspnea and reducing oxygen saturation.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What is hypoxemia and how does it relate to altitude changes?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why do patients with congestive heart failure experience more issues at altitude?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are the differences between partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
BCEN CFRN
General Principles of Flight Transport Nursing Practice
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access