Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which condition is indicated for the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)?

1. Pneumothorax

2. Pulmonary edema

3. Cardiac arrest

4. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

The correct answer is: Pulmonary edema

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is an effective intervention primarily utilized in situations where there is an issue with gas exchange, especially related to fluid in the lungs, such as in pulmonary edema. This condition often arises from heart failure or other underlying issues that lead to an accumulation of fluid in the alveoli, impairing oxygenation and leading to respiratory distress. When CPAP is applied, it helps to maintain open airways by providing a continuous flow of air, preventing the alveoli from collapsing and enhancing ventilation. This increased airway pressure can help relieve the work of breathing and improve oxygenation, making it particularly beneficial for patients experiencing pulmonary edema. In contrast, conditions such as pneumothorax, cardiac arrest, and COPD have different management strategies. Pneumothorax requires other interventions to address the collapsed lung, while cardiac arrest necessitates immediate resuscitation efforts without the application of CPAP. In COPD, CPAP can be used in specific scenarios, but the definitive management often focuses on bronchodilators and other therapies targeting airway obstruction rather than continuous positive pressure.