Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

When is it most appropriate to administer oxygen to a patient?

1. Only when the patient requests it

2. In all unconscious patients

3. In cases of respiratory distress or hypoxia

4. Only during cardiac arrest

The correct answer is: In cases of respiratory distress or hypoxia

Administering oxygen is most appropriate in cases of respiratory distress or hypoxia because these conditions indicate that the body is not receiving enough oxygen to function properly. Respiratory distress can manifest as difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or shallow breaths and often leads to decreased oxygen saturation levels in the blood. In such situations, supplemental oxygen can help improve tissue oxygenation and alleviate symptoms. Hypoxia, which refers to inadequate oxygen supply at the cellular level, can have severe consequences if not addressed. Providing oxygen in these instances is crucial for stabilizing the patient’s condition, minimizing the risk of organ damage, and enhancing overall outcomes. It's important to assess the patient's clinical presentation and vital signs thoroughly to determine the need for oxygen, rather than administering it solely based on unconsciousness, patient requests, or specific scenarios like cardiac arrest. Each of these other scenarios does not adequately consider the full spectrum of conditions where oxygen therapy would be beneficial.