Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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In emergency situations, what is the primary purpose of a nonrebreathing mask?

  1. To provide oxygen with minimal carbon dioxide

  2. To prevent airway obstruction

  3. To deliver 100% oxygen to the patient

  4. To stabilize neck injuries

The correct answer is: To deliver 100% oxygen to the patient

The primary purpose of a nonrebreathing mask is to deliver 100% oxygen to the patient. This type of mask is specifically designed to ensure that the patient receives a high concentration of oxygen, which is crucial in emergency situations where the patient's oxygen levels may be critically low. A nonrebreathing mask features a reservoir bag that fills with oxygen and has one-way valves that prevent the mixing of exhaled air (which contains carbon dioxide) with the oxygen supplied to the patient. This design allows for maximum oxygen delivery, making it an effective tool for treating conditions such as hypoxia or in cases where the patient is in respiratory distress. While preventing airway obstruction and stabilizing neck injuries are important in emergency medical care, they are not the primary functions of a nonrebreathing mask. Similarly, while the mask helps minimize the inhalation of carbon dioxide to some extent, its main function remains the direct delivery of high-flow oxygen.