Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

A 48-year-old man has a respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute and an SpO2 of 89%. What is the greatest threat to this patient?

1. Tachycardia

2. Infection

3. Hypoxia

4. Elevated blood pressure

The correct answer is: Hypoxia

In this scenario, the patient's respiratory rate is elevated at 28 breaths per minute, indicating tachypnea, and his oxygen saturation (SpO2) is low at 89%. These findings are critical because they point to inadequate oxygenation of the blood, known as hypoxia. Hypoxia can result in significant cellular damage and can quickly lead to life-threatening conditions if not addressed. The body's organs and tissues rely on adequate oxygen supply to function properly, and when levels drop below normal, complications can arise. Prolonged hypoxia can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrest or permanent organ damage, particularly to vital organs like the brain and heart, which are highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation. While tachycardia, infection, and elevated blood pressure could be relevant concerns in this patient, none pose as immediate a threat as hypoxia in this context. Elevated respiratory rates and low SpO2 levels are strong indicators that the patient is not getting enough oxygen, making hypoxia the most pressing issue that needs to be addressed.