Human Factors

Question 1

HYPOXIA

DEFINITION

Answer 1

Insufficient supply of oxygen to the body’s cells.

Question 2

HYPOXIA

HYPOXIC

Answer 2

Insufficient supply of O2 to the body as a whole. As altitude increases, O2 percentage of the atmosphere remains constant, but it’s pressure decreases. The reduced pressure becomes insufficient for the O2 molecules to pass through the respiratory system’s membranes.

Question 3

HYPOXIA

HYPEMIC

Answer 3

Inability of the blood to carry O2 molecules. It may be a result of insufficient blood (bleeding or donation), anemia, or CO poisoning.

Question 4

HYPOXIA

HISTOTOXIC

Answer 4

Inability of the body’s cells to effectively use the O2 supplied by the blood. This can be caused by use of alcohol or drugs.

Question 5

HYPOXIA

STAGNANT

Answer 5

Caused by the blood not flowing efficiently. Can be caused by heart problems, excessive acceleration (Gs), shock, or a constricted blood vessel. Cold temperatures can restrict circulation and decrease blood supplied to the extremeties.

Question 6

HYPERVENTILATION

Answer 6

Condition which occurs when excessive amounts of CO2 are eliminated from the body as a result of breathing too rapidly. Symptoms may be similar to those of hypoxia. Breathing into a paper bag or talking aloud helps recover from hyperventilation.

Question 7

DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS

Answer 7

Inert gasses (mainly nitrogen) are released rapidly from solution in the body tissue and fluids as a result of low barometric pressure. The gasses form bubbles tha tmay harm the body in several ways. The most common result of decompression sickness is joint pain (the bends). To help prevent the bends after SCUBA diving:
* wait at least 12 hours after diving that does not require controlled ascent (non-decompression stop diving) for flights up to 8,000’ MSL.
* wait 24 hours for flights above 8,000’ MSL or after any diving that requires a controlled ascent (decompression stop diving).