Rock the JBL EMT Practice Exam 2026 – Your Ultimate Emergency Adventure!

In which situation would treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) most likely be contraindicated?

Conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%

Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) would be contraindicated in a conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%. This is because a CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air to the lungs, which can increase the oxygen levels in the blood. In a patient with an oxygen saturation of only 85%, administering CPAP could lead to hyperoxia which can cause damage to the lungs (e.g. oxygen toxicity).

Option B is incorrect because difficulty breathing and tachycardia are common indications for CPAP treatment, not contraindications. Option C is incorrect because although pulmonary edema, history of hypertension, and anxiety may make it more challenging to administer CPAP, they are not absolute contraindications. Option D is incorrect because CPAP can actually help improve blood pressure by increasing oxygen levels and reducing the work of breathing.

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Difficulty breathing, two-word dyspnea, and tachycardia

Pulmonary edema, history of hypertension, and anxiety

Shortness of breath and a blood pressure of 76/56 mm Hg