At what pressure range can a patient sleep on 100% oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber?

Prepare for the Coast Guard Hyperbaric Medicine Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The correct pressure range for a patient to safely sleep on 100% oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber is 30 fsw (feet of seawater) or shallower. At shallow depths, specifically below 30 fsw, the risk of oxygen toxicity is significantly reduced. This is because the partial pressure of oxygen remains at levels that do not exceed safe thresholds for long durations. In this depth range, the body can tolerate the high concentration of oxygen without adverse effects.

Once the pressure exceeds this range, the risk of central nervous system oxygen toxicity increases. Such toxicity can lead to symptoms such as visual disturbances, twitching, and convulsions, which are serious concerns for patients in hyperbaric therapy. Therefore, maintaining treatment at 30 fsw or shallower ensures patient safety during oxygen exposure while maximizing therapeutic benefits.

In contrast, pressures above this range may require stricter monitoring and careful management of oxygen exposure times to prevent toxicity, making shallow depths the optimal choice for prolonged sleep under hyperbaric conditions.

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