FAA Ground School Practice Test

How can a pilot help restore proper carbon dioxide levels during hyperventilation?

1. By increasing the breathing rate

2. By taking deep breaths only

3. By slowing the breathing rate and breathing into a paper bag

4. By holding their breath

The correct answer is: By slowing the breathing rate and breathing into a paper bag

Restoring proper carbon dioxide levels during hyperventilation is crucial, as hyperventilation often leads to decreased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, resulting in symptoms such as lightheadedness, tingling, and potential loss of consciousness. One effective method for a pilot to counteract this condition is by slowing the breathing rate and breathing into a paper bag. Breathing into a paper bag can help to increase carbon dioxide levels. When a person breathes into the bag, they inhale the air they just exhaled, which contains higher levels of carbon dioxide compared to the surrounding atmosphere. By slowing down the breathing rate and focusing on deeper, controlled breaths, the pilot can prevent an excessive loss of carbon dioxide, helping to restore balance in the body’s gas exchange. This method is particularly effective because it allows the pilot to manage their anxiety and physiological state, thus reducing hyperventilation symptoms. Using other methods, like significantly increasing the breathing rate or simply holding their breath, may exacerbate the symptoms rather than alleviating them. Therefore, the combination of controlled and reduced breathing while using the paper bag approach is the most effective strategy for recovering from hyperventilation.