Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Practice Test

In what scenarios might HBO be used as an adjunct therapy for burn patients?

1. Patients with small localized burns

2. Patients with no symptoms

3. Patients with large TBSA burns or burns involving critical areas

4. Patients treated with only topical ointments

The correct answer is: Patients with large TBSA burns or burns involving critical areas

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is recognized as a valuable adjunct treatment for patients with significant burns, particularly those with large total body surface area (TBSA) burns or burns that affect critical regions such as the face, hands, feet, and joints. The rationale behind using HBO in these cases lies in its potential to enhance oxygen delivery to damaged tissues, improve wound healing, and decrease the risk of infection. In large burns, the body’s ability to provide sufficient oxygen to the compromised areas is severely hindered due to vascular damage and disrupted perfusion. By delivering oxygen at greater-than-normal atmospheric pressures, HBO allows more oxygen to dissolve directly into plasma, ensuring that even areas with poor blood flow receive adequate oxygen. This is especially important in critical areas where tissue regeneration is essential for maintaining function and appearance. Additionally, HBO may help mitigate the effects of hypoxia in burn wounds, reduce edema, and assist in the recovery process by enhancing the activity of certain growth factors and stem cells crucial for healing. Therefore, utilizing HBO therapy in cases of large TBSA burns or burns in critical locations can contribute significantly to patient outcomes, validating its use as an adjunct therapy in such scenarios.