Pneumothorax

Question 1

RF/Causes

Answer 1

Trauma, COPD, malignancy, primary (tall lanky habitus), sugery

Ehlers Danlos and Marfans.

Question 2

Presentation/symptoms and signs

Answer 2

Chest pain, tachyponea, SoB, haematemesis

Signs: tachyardia, tachypnoea, hypoxia, reduced chest expansion, reduced breath sounds and hyperacousis.

Trachea central/deviated if tension.

Question 3

Investigations

Answer 3

If tension, correct with wide bore cannula, 2nd intercostal space, above rib.

Bedside - oximetry

Bloods - FBC, UandE, CRP. ABG
Imaging - CXR

Question 4

Management

Answer 4

Pleural drain, 5th space, 24hrs mix axillary line.