NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which patient symptom might indicate severe hypoxia?

1. Low energy

2. Extreme restlessness

3. Chest pain

4. Stable blood pressure

The correct answer is: Extreme restlessness

Extreme restlessness can be a key indicator of severe hypoxia. In a state of hypoxia, the body's tissues are not receiving enough oxygen, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, agitation, and restlessness as the body's alarm systems activate in response to low oxygen levels. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen to function properly, and when levels drop significantly, it can affect cognitive function and emotional stability, leading to the observed restlessness. Low energy might be an associated symptom but is less specific to hypoxia compared to extreme restlessness, which can manifest more acutely as oxygen deprivation worsens. Chest pain could have multiple causes and isn't exclusively linked to hypoxia; it could indicate a cardiac issue or other conditions. A stable blood pressure suggests that there isn't acute distress affecting the circulatory system at that moment, which can often accompany severe hypoxic events. Thus, extreme restlessness stands out as a significant symptom in the context of severe hypoxia.