HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

Which drug is most commonly used during a medical emergency in the dental office?

1. Adrenaline

2. Aspirin

3. Oxygen

4. Glucose

The correct answer is: Oxygen

In a medical emergency within a dental office, the administration of oxygen is essential, particularly in situations where a patient may experience respiratory distress, syncope, or other forms of unconsciousness. Oxygen acts to quickly restore adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which can be critical for ensuring the patient’s safety and facilitating recovery. Oxygen supports the body’s vital functions and is often the first-line intervention in emergencies, ensuring that the tissues and organs receive the necessary oxygenation. It can be administered easily and has immediate effects, which makes it indispensable during medical crises. While adrenaline, aspirin, and glucose each play significant roles in managing specific medical emergencies—like anaphylaxis, myocardial infarction, and hypoglycemia, respectively—they do not provide the broad-spectrum support needed for immediate resuscitation in dental settings where different types of emergencies may arise. Depending on the situation, they might be important to have on hand, but oxygen holds a unique and pivotal position as a fundamental necessity in critical situations.