Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions Related

Review Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions related questions and content

What is an early signs of the effect of hypoxemia on the nervous system?

  • A. Cyanosis
  • B. Restlessness
  • C. Tachycardia
  • D. Tachypnea
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Restlessness. When the body experiences hypoxemia (low oxygen levels), the brain is deprived of oxygen, leading to early signs such as restlessness. This is due to the brain's attempt to increase oxygen intake by increasing activity. Cyanosis (A) is a late sign of hypoxemia when oxygen levels are critically low. Tachycardia (C) and tachypnea (D) are compensatory mechanisms in response to hypoxemia, but they are not early signs affecting the nervous system directly.