In the hypotension management protocol, which item is used as smelling salts?

• A. Ammonia capsule (smelling salts)
• B. Oxygen mask
• C. Alcohol wipe
• D. Lemon essential oil

Answer: (A)

Smelling salts work by delivering a sharp irritant that stimulates the nasal and airway passages, triggering a quick reflex that increases breathing, heart rate, and vascular tone. In the hypotension management protocol used during oral sedation, this rapid stimulant is provided by an ammonia capsule. When crushed or opened, it releases ammonia gas that the patient inhales, producing a brief arousal and rise in blood pressure.

The other items don’t serve this purpose. An oxygen mask supports oxygen delivery but doesn’t provoke the reflexive alerting response needed to counteract faintness. An alcohol wipe is for cleaning or disinfection, not for stimulation. Lemon essential oil is a scent and doesn’t generate the irritant inhalation reflex used in this protocol.