Ryanair Initial Practice Exam

What should be minimized when treating hyperventilation?

1. Breathing into a paper bag

2. Increased physical activity

3. Calming the person

4. Rapid talking

The correct answer is: Rapid talking

Minimizing rapid talking is important when treating hyperventilation because engaging in fast dialogue can exacerbate anxiety and make the individual more breathless, potentially leading to a further increase in their breathing rate. Hyperventilation is often associated with anxiety and can result in an irregular breathing pattern, leading to decreased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. By encouraging a calmer environment and reducing the pace of communication, the person experiencing hyperventilation can better focus on regulating their breathing. Calming the person, using techniques such as controlled breathing exercises or creating a quiet space, can help bring their physiological state back to normal. In some cases, individuals are encouraged to breathe into a paper bag to help them regain a proper balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in their system. Increasing physical activity is generally not advised because it can further increase the heart rate and breathing rate, making the situation worse. Therefore, minimizing rapid talking is a constructive approach to help the individual manage their symptoms effectively.