Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Practice Test

What is essential for monitoring during HBOT for CO poisoning?

1. Patient hydration levels

2. Continuous assessment of symptoms and vital signs

3. Administering pain medication

4. Performing regular lab tests

The correct answer is: Continuous assessment of symptoms and vital signs

Continuous assessment of symptoms and vital signs is essential during Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning because it allows for real-time monitoring of the patient's condition. CO poisoning can lead to a range of complications that can change rapidly, and symptoms can vary from cognitive changes to respiratory issues. By continuously assessing vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, healthcare providers can detect any deterioration in the patient's condition promptly and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. This monitoring also involves observing neurological symptoms, which are particularly important in CO poisoning cases, as they can provide insights into the effectiveness of the therapy and the patient’s overall response. Adequate monitoring ensures that any adverse effects related to the therapy itself—like oxygen toxicity—can also be identified quickly. In contrast, while patient hydration levels are important for overall care, they are not specific to the monitoring required during HBOT for CO poisoning. Administering pain medication may not be relevant unless the patient is experiencing significant discomfort, and regular lab tests, although useful for tracking some aspects of the patient’s health, do not provide the immediate, continuous insight that monitoring symptoms and vital signs does.