Hyperventilation Management — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateMedical Emergencies in DentistryHyperventilation ManagementNDEB AFK

In the dental office management of hyperventilation syndrome, which of the following is the most appropriate initial intervention?

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Correct answer: D — Have the patient breathe into cupped hands or a paper bag and provide reassurance

Hyperventilation syndrome (typically anxiety-induced) results in excessive CO₂ exhalation, causing respiratory alkalosis with perioral tingling, finger tingling/carpopedal spasm, light-headedness, and chest tightness. Management involves calm reassurance, having the patient breathe into cupped hands or a paper bag (to rebreathe CO₂), and terminating the dental procedure. Oxygen should NOT be administered as it does not address the underlying alkalosis. The symptoms resolve as PCO₂ normalises. Differentiate from true respiratory emergency.

Reference: Malamed – Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office, 8th ed., 2022