Occupational and Environmental Health: Recognizing and Preventing Disease and Injury - Multiple Choice Questions - Learn & Prevent

What causes arterial gas embolism in hyperbaric conditions?

1. Swallowing air rapidly

2. Lungs overinflation leading to rupture of alveolar capillaries

3. Consumption of carbonated drinks

4. Lack of nitrogen in the body

The correct answer is: Lungs overinflation leading to rupture of alveolar capillaries

Arterial gas embolism occurs when gas bubbles enter the bloodstream and travel to various organs, causing damage and potentially even death. This is most commonly associated with hyperbaric conditions, such as scuba diving or hyperbaric oxygen therapy. While all of the other options listed could potentially result in an increased level of gas in the body, they do not specifically address the crucial factor of gas entering the bloodstream, which is what defines arterial gas embolism. Therefore, the most accurate answer is option B, as lung overinflation can result in rupturing of the alveolar capillaries, allowing gas to enter the bloodstream and cause arterial gas embolism.