New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What should be administered to a 62-year-old male with breathing difficulty and low blood pressure?

1. High-concentration oxygen and placed in a position of comfort

2. Standard room air in an upright position

3. Oxygen via nasal cannula and flat on back

4. High-flow oxygen and sitting upright

The correct answer is: High-concentration oxygen and placed in a position of comfort

Administering high-concentration oxygen and positioning the patient in a position of comfort is appropriate for a 62-year-old male experiencing difficulty breathing alongside low blood pressure. High-concentration oxygen is crucial in cases where a patient struggles to breathe, as it helps ensure adequate oxygenation of tissues and organs, which can be compromised in respiratory distress. Placing the patient in a position of comfort, often sitting up or at least propped, can facilitate breathing by allowing the diaphragm more room to function and reducing the workload on respiratory muscles. This position is often more favorable for patients with respiratory distress, as it can alleviate the feeling of breathlessness and make it easier for them to take in air. Other options may not provide the optimal care needed in this scenario. For example, standard room air in an upright position may not supply enough oxygen when breathing is already compromised. Oxygen via nasal cannula while lying flat might hinder the effective movement of the diaphragm, causing further respiratory challenges. High-flow oxygen while sitting upright could be correct in some cases; however, the option of high-concentration oxygen alongside positioning for comfort effectively addresses both the immediate need for oxygen and the psychological comfort that can ease the patient’s breathing struggle.