North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the NAVLE Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each question. Get ready for your examination!

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What pressure limit should be observed when manually ventilating a patient with pneumothorax?

  1. 8cm H2O

  2. 12cm H2O

  3. 20cm H2O

  4. 24cm H2O

The correct answer is: 20cm H2O

When manually ventilating a patient with pneumothorax, it is crucial to limit the pressure to prevent further complications such as worsening the pneumothorax or causing barotrauma. A pressure limit of 20cm H2O is generally considered safe for this scenario. The rationale for this limit is based on the vulnerability of the pleural space in a patient with pneumothorax. Excessive ventilation pressure can lead to additional air entering the pleural space or can exacerbate the existing condition. Ventilation pressures higher than 20cm H2O significantly increase the risk of damaging the alveoli and surrounding tissues, which can result in further respiratory distress and may complicate management strategies. Lower limits, such as 8cm H2O and 12cm H2O, may not provide enough ventilation support in an emergency situation, particularly if the patient is already compromised. A limit of 24cm H2O is considered too high and poses significant risks in such clinical scenarios. Maintaining pressure at or below 20cm H2O while providing manual ventilation allows for adequate oxygenation and ventilation without compromising the integrity of the alveolar structures or worsening the pneumothorax.