Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) Practice Exam

What gas law is most critical for a patient with pneumocephalus during transport?

1. Charles's Law

2. Dalton's Law

3. Boyle's Law

4. Graham's Law

The correct answer is: Boyle's Law

In the case of a patient with pneumocephalus, Boyle's Law is particularly important to consider. This law states that at constant temperature, the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume. In practical terms, this means that if the volume of a gas decreases, the pressure increases, and vice versa. For a patient with pneumocephalus, which involves the presence of air in the cranial cavity, fluctuations in pressure during transport can lead to significant complications. As altitude increases during flight, the pressure decreases. According to Boyle's Law, if the volume of the gas remains the same or expands, the pressure would drop. This can cause the trapped gas in the cranial cavity to expand, resulting in increased intracranial pressure, risk of brain herniation, or other severe consequences. Understanding Boyle's Law is critical for managing the patient safely during transport, as it informs healthcare providers about the potential risks associated with changes in altitude and pressure, allowing them to take appropriate precautions and interventions to minimize these risks.