Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient's SpO2 (oxygen saturation) drops to 92% during treatment. What is the FIRST step?
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Correct answer: D. Pull the mandible forward (jaw thrust/head tilt-chin lift)
- A. Nitroglycerin is for angina/cardiac chest pain — NOT for oxygen desaturation. It would worsen hypotension.
- B. Giving a reversal agent may be appropriate if the patient was sedated, but is not the FIRST step for a SpO2 drop — airway positioning should be immediate first response.
- C. Aspirin is given for suspected MI/ACS — not for oxygen desaturation.
- D. SpO2 of 92% during dental treatment most likely indicates airway obstruction. The FIRST step is to open the airway by jaw thrust or head tilt-chin lift — lifting the tongue off the posterior pharyngeal wall. This is the immediate airway maneuver before any medication.
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