Advanced Medical Life Support (AMLS)

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) would be most beneficial for which patient?

1. A 43yo with a decreased LOC with respiratory difficulty

2. A 22yo with severe asthma who is not responding to nebulizer treatments

3. A 38yo with carpal pedal spasms and clear lung sounds

4. A 55yo with jugular vein distension and a BP of 90/60

The correct answer is: A 22yo with severe asthma who is not responding to nebulizer treatments

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing respiratory distress, especially in cases such as severe asthma that is unresponsive to traditional treatments like nebulizers. In this scenario, a 22-year-old with severe asthma who is not responding to nebulizer therapy is experiencing significant difficulty with airflow and oxygenation. CPAP can help by providing a steady pressure to keep the airways open, thereby improving ventilation and preventing airway collapse during exhalation. This intervention can help reduce the work of breathing, improve oxygenation, and alleviate respiratory distress. The other options describe conditions that may not benefit from CPAP. For instance, a patient with decreased level of consciousness and respiratory difficulty might require alternative airway management strategies, rather than CPAP, due to the risk of airway obstruction. The patient with carpal pedal spasms is more likely suffering from metabolic issues, such as hyperventilation syndrome, and not a condition that necessitates CPAP. Lastly, the patient exhibiting jugular vein distension and low blood pressure indicates possible heart failure or fluid overload, which typically requires more invasive interventions or medications rather than CPAP. Thus, option B highlights the ideal situation where CPAP provides crucial support in managing a patient’s severe respiratory distress in asthma