Emergencies

Question 1

Emergency management of pneumothorax:

1. Small
2. > 2cm and/or breathless
3. > 2cm but failure of aspiration to relieve symptoms
4. Tension pneumothorax .

Answer 1

1. Observation. Air will usually reabsorb.
2. Aspiration using a 16-18G cannula sited in the 2nd intercostal space mid-clavicular line.
3. Intercostal small bore drain in 5th intercostal; space mid axillary line.
4. Oxygen & immediate aspiration. 16-18G needle 2nd anterior intercostal space midclavicular line. A chest drain should be inserted immediately after the initial chest decompression.

Question 2

What is the difference between type I and type II respiratory failure?

Answer 2

Respiratory failure occurs when gas exchange is inadequate, resulting in hypoxia.
Type I RF is hypoxia (6 kPa).