Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What condition would preclude a patient from receiving CPAP?

1. Moderate respiratory distress

2. History of fractured nasal bone

3. Tracheostomy

4. Alertness with sign of oxygen deprivation

The correct answer is: Tracheostomy

The condition that would preclude a patient from receiving Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a tracheostomy. CPAP is a non-invasive ventilation method that relies on a tight seal around the face or mouth to deliver a constant flow of air. A tracheostomy, which is an opening made in the front of the neck directly into the trachea, bypasses the upper airway structures where CPAP would normally apply pressure. Because air can be directly introduced into the trachea through a tracheostomy tube, the use of CPAP is inappropriate and unnecessary, since it could interfere with the patient's ventilation and may not provide any benefit. Other conditions listed may involve respiratory issues or challenge, but do not fundamentally disrupt the normal pathways for CPAP application. Moderate respiratory distress can often be treated effectively with CPAP to help improve oxygenation and reduce the work of breathing. A history of fractured nasal bone does not automatically contraindicate the use of CPAP, although caution might be advised depending on the degree of injury and other patient considerations. Signs of oxygen deprivation in an alert patient indicate a need for intervention, and CPAP may still be beneficial in managing their condition, provided there are no other contraindications.