Pneumothorax

Question 1

Causes

Answer 1

Can occur due to obstruction, trauma, cancer or TB

Tension pneumothorax occurs when air continues to build within the pleural space compressing the lungs, heart and great vessels

Question 2

S&S

Answer 2

Tachypnea
Pain
Dyspnea
hypoxia
Grunting
Pallor or cyanosis
Diminished or absent breath sounds on affected side
Asymmetrical chest expansion
Sternal and intercostal retractions

Acute respiratory distress

Hypotension occurs due to venous return is impeded and cardiac output falls

Jugular distension (late sign)

Question 3

Management

Answer 3

Supp O2
Chest tube insertion
Chest tube drainage system
Needle thoracentesis