Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

Which type of hypoxia results from a physical obstruction in blood flow?

1. Histotoxic hypoxia

2. Hypoxic hypoxia

3. Stagnant hypoxia

4. Hypemic hypoxia

The correct answer is: Stagnant hypoxia

Stagnant hypoxia arises from a physical obstruction in blood flow, leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues despite the presence of sufficient oxygen in the blood. This condition is often due to factors such as heart failure, shock, or any blockage in the circulatory system that impedes normal blood flow, which is critical for transporting oxygen to cells. In stagnant hypoxia, the blood's ability to carry oxygen remains intact, but the flow is restricted, thus resulting in decreased oxygenation at the tissue level. This is distinct from other types of hypoxia, such as hypoxic hypoxia, which is caused by low oxygen availability in the environment; hypemic hypoxia, which stems from a reduced ability of the blood to carry oxygen, often due to anemia or carbon monoxide poisoning; and histotoxic hypoxia, where cells are unable to utilize oxygen due to toxicity. Understanding stagnant hypoxia is essential for transport nurses, as recognizing and addressing underlying circulatory issues can help improve patient outcomes in critical care and during patient transfers.