Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What action should you take when a patient receiving 100% oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask shows shallow respirations?

1. Notify the hospital immediately

2. Begin assisting his ventilations

3. Increase the oxygen flow rate

4. Remove the mask to allow for easier breathing

The correct answer is: Begin assisting his ventilations

When a patient is receiving 100% oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask and exhibits shallow respirations, the most appropriate action is to begin assisting with their ventilations. Shallow breathing can indicate that the patient is not adequately ventilating, which can lead to insufficient oxygenation and potential respiratory distress. Assisting ventilations helps to ensure that the patient receives enough volume of air into their lungs, effectively enhancing oxygen exchange and supporting their breathing. This intervention is critical in a prehospital setting, where timely assistance can prevent deterioration of the patient's condition. The focus is on ensuring that the patient is adequately ventilated, as oxygen delivery alone may not suffice if the mechanics of breathing are compromised. Other options would not address the immediate need for respiratory support. For instance, notifying the hospital could delay necessary interventions that may be required right away to stabilize the patient. Increasing the oxygen flow rate would not resolve the underlying issue of inadequate ventilation. Removing the mask could lead to a further decline in oxygenation, as the patient would not receive any supplemental oxygen while struggling to breathe. Thus, assisting the patient's ventilations is the most effective intervention in this scenario.