Adult Critical Care Specialty (ACCS) Practice Exam

In the case of a respiratory failure, what is an important supportive therapy to consider?

1. Diuretics

2. Oxygen therapy

3. Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis

4. Intravenous antibiotics

The correct answer is: Oxygen therapy

In the scenario of respiratory failure, oxygen therapy plays a critical role in supportive treatment. This therapy is essential for ensuring adequate oxygenation of the body's tissues, as respiratory failure can lead to hypoxemia, where the blood oxygen levels drop to dangerously low levels. Administering supplemental oxygen can help to restore these levels, improve tissue perfusion, and alleviate symptoms of hypoxia in patients experiencing respiratory distress. While diuretics, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, and intravenous antibiotics are important components of care in various contexts, they do not directly address the immediate need for oxygenation in respiratory failure. Diuretics may be useful in managing fluid overload, especially in cases like heart failure, but they do not have a direct impact on oxygen levels. Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis is important for preventing complications but is not an immediate treatment for respiratory issues. Intravenous antibiotics are crucial in infections that might contribute to respiratory failure but are not supportive therapy for the respiratory aspect itself. Thus, oxygen therapy is the direct and vital supportive measure needed in this situation.