Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Practice Test

What is the primary goal of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) when treating carbon monoxide poisoning?

1. To hydrate the patient

2. To increase oxygen delivery and reduce CO levels

3. To alleviate pain

4. To perform surgery on the patient

The correct answer is: To increase oxygen delivery and reduce CO levels

The primary goal of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in the treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning is to increase oxygen delivery to the tissues and reduce carbon monoxide levels in the blood. When exposed to carbon monoxide, the gas binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which impairs the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. By administering oxygen at a higher pressure in a hyperbaric chamber, HBOT significantly enhances the amount of dissolved oxygen in the plasma. This increased oxygen delivery helps to displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin more effectively, facilitating its removal from the body and restoring oxygen supply to vital organs and tissues. The therapy also aids in reducing the risk of long-term neurological damage resulting from hypoxia caused by carbon monoxide binding. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the critical therapeutic action of HBOT in treating carbon monoxide poisoning. The other options do not align with the main objectives of HBOT in this specific context. For example, hydration is not a direct goal of the therapy, and while pain relief may be a concern in some clinical treatments, it is not the focus here. Surgery is not a standard intervention for carbon monoxide poisoning; the emphasis is on the administration of oxygen to counteract the