NREMT Paramedic Practice

Early symptoms of hypoxia include which of the following?

1. Fever and chills

2. Restlessness and anxiety

3. Severe cough

4. Nausea and vomiting

The correct answer is: Restlessness and anxiety

Early symptoms of hypoxia are often related to the body's response to decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Restlessness and anxiety occur as the brain begins to signal that it's not receiving enough oxygen, leading to an increased sense of urgency or discomfort. These psychological symptoms are the body's way of prompting the individual to seek help or to alter their situation to restore adequate oxygen levels. In this context, options like fever and chills, severe cough, and nausea and vomiting do not typically indicate hypoxia. Fever and chills are more commonly associated with infections or inflammatory processes, while a severe cough can point to respiratory issues rather than a lack of oxygen specifically. Nausea and vomiting may occur due to a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal disturbances, and are not primarily linked to early hypoxic symptoms.