Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What is nitric oxide primarily used for in ventilatory support?

1. As a long-term anesthetic

2. To enhance sedative effects during surgery

3. As a selective vasodilator to improve oxygenation

4. As a short-term bronchodilator

The correct answer is: As a selective vasodilator to improve oxygenation

Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in ventilatory support primarily as a selective vasodilator, which helps improve oxygenation in patients, especially those suffering from conditions like acute pulmonary hypertension or respiratory distress syndromes. By dilating the pulmonary blood vessels, nitric oxide facilitates increased blood flow to well-ventilated areas of the lungs. This selective vasodilation optimizes gas exchange and enhances the delivery of oxygen to tissues, which is vital for patients in critical care requiring respiratory support. This agent specifically targets the pulmonary vasculature without significantly affecting systemic blood pressure, making it effective in treating specific lung complications while safeguarding overall hemodynamic stability. The focus on improving oxygenation is essential in ventilatory support, as it directly impacts patient outcomes and recovery. Other options, such as using nitric oxide as a long-term anesthetic or enhancing sedative effects, do not align with its pharmacological properties or primary function in ventilatory support. Similarly, while nitric oxide can have mild bronchodilatory effects, it is not primarily classified as a bronchodilator in the context of acute respiratory support since its main function revolves around improving oxygenation through vascular effects.