Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What is a common recommendation for patients who have had recent dental work and wish to fly?

1. They should immediately fly

2. They should take anti-nausea medication

3. They should wait a minimum of 12-24 hours

4. They should drink plenty of water

The correct answer is: They should wait a minimum of 12-24 hours

Patients who have recently undergone dental work are often advised to wait a minimum of 12-24 hours before flying. This recommendation is grounded in the potential risks associated with flying shortly after dental procedures. After dental work, patients may experience swelling, sensitivity, or bleeding, which could be exacerbated by the changes in pressure during a flight. In particular, conditions like sinus congestion or recent tooth extractions can lead to complications, including pain or discomfort, when cabin pressure changes. Waiting allows for any immediate post-operative issues to stabilize, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience when traveling by air.