Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What is the elevation range associated with the critical stage for altitude effects?

1. 15,000 - 20,000 ft

2. 20,000 - 30,000 ft

3. 30,000 - 35,000 ft

4. 10,000 - 15,000 ft

The correct answer is: 20,000 - 30,000 ft

The elevation range associated with the critical stage for altitude effects is recognized to be between 20,000 and 30,000 feet. This range is significant because it aligns with the altitude where individuals begin to experience serious physiological changes due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure and available oxygen. At these elevations, the risk of developing altitude sickness increases considerably, and it can happen to individuals who ascend rapidly without adequate acclimatization. Within this range, the body can struggle to maintain adequate oxygenation, leading to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, life-threatening conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Understanding this critical range is essential for transport nurses as they prepare for interventions and ensure safety during air transport in their practice. The other elevation ranges identified do not coincide with the critical effects on altitude. For instance, the lower ranges, such as 10,000 - 15,000 feet, may present some mild symptoms in susceptible individuals, but they are generally not considered critically dangerous. The higher ranges, above 30,000 feet, present extreme conditions that go beyond typical transport scenarios. It’s crucial for transport nurses to recognize the 20