You are accompanying a team of hikers climbing a high mountain. In the morning, you are summoned to a tent and find one of the climbers confused and complaining of a headache. His airway is patent and respirations adequate. He has no medical history and was in good health until found this morning by his friend. Suspicious of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), you should do which one of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice in this scenario is to provide high-concentration oxygen. HACE is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs at high altitudes and is characterized by cerebral edema. Treatment includes immediate descent to lower altitude and providing high-concentration oxygen to improve oxygenation to the brain. Immobilization, oropharyngeal airway insertion, and oral glucose administration are not appropriate treatments for HACE.

You Are Accompanying a Team of Hikers Climbing a High