Question

You are treating a patient who experienced a significant exposure to cyanide. He is semiconscious and is breathing inadequately. The MOST appropriate method of providing assisted ventilations to this patient is to__________

1) use a bag-valve mask.
2) perform mouth-to-mask ventilations.
3) request a paramedic unit to intubate.
4) perform mouth-to-mouth ventilations.

Answer 1

In the case of cyanide exposure with inadequate breathing, using a bag-valve mask is the most recommended method of providing assisted ventilations, ensuring efficient oxygen delivery and rescuer safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate method of providing assisted ventilations to a patient who has experienced significant exposure to cyanide, is semiconscious and is breathing inadequately would be to use a bag-valve mask. This device allows for high concentrations of oxygen to be delivered, which is essential in the treatment of cyanide poisoning. Furthermore, mouth-to-mouth ventilations are not recommended due to the risk of contamination to the rescuer, and waiting for a paramedic unit to intubate could delay critical care. It is important to provide oxygen as efficiently as possible to a patient in this critical condition, while ensuring the safety of the healthcare provider.