Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

When attempting to ventilate an unconscious patient, you note decreased lung compliance. This indicates:

1. Increased airway resistance

2. Decreased alveolar expansion

3. Increased pulmonary circulation

4. Obstructed upper airway

The correct answer is: Decreased alveolar expansion

Decreased lung compliance indicates that the lungs are not expanding as easily as they should be during ventilation. This condition often arises when there is an issue with the alveoli, such as fluid accumulation, inflammation, or other pathological changes that hinder their ability to inflate properly. As a result, the lung tissue becomes stiffer, which means more pressure is required to achieve adequate ventilation. In clinical practice, decreased compliance may occur in various scenarios, including pneumonia, pulmonary edema, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In these cases, the alveoli cannot expand effectively during inspiration, leading to reduced gas exchange and potentially hypoxemia. Understanding this principle is critical in emergency settings. When you encounter a patient with decreased lung compliance, it is essential to assess the possible underlying causes and manage them appropriately. Recognizing the significance of alveolar expansion can lead to timely and life-saving interventions.