Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Practice Test

The healthy, 22-year-old pregnant patient that presents with a history of mild exposure to CO and a COHgb level of 15% should be treated.

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

The determination to treat a pregnant patient with a carbon monoxide (CO) exposure and a carboxyhemoglobin (COHgb) level of 15% is based on the potential effects of carbon monoxide on both the mother and the developing fetus. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin more readily than oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia. In pregnant women, even mild exposure can pose significant risks due to the fetus's increased vulnerability to low oxygen levels. A COHgb level of 15% is considered clinically significant, especially in the context of pregnancy. It is necessary to treat this patient to ensure both maternal and fetal safety. Treatment typically involves administering hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which is effective in displacing carbon monoxide from hemoglobin and restoring normal oxygen levels. The rationale for opting for treatment over observation or dismissal of the situation hinges on the known risks associated with carbon monoxide exposure. Pregnant individuals have physiological changes that increase their susceptibility to hypoxia, and immediate treatment can help prevent potential complications such as fetal injury or developmental issues. Therefore, the decision to treat the patient with a 15% COHgb level is rooted in ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and her child, highlighting the importance of prompt medical intervention in