Pneumothorax

Question 1

describe what a pneumothorax is

Answer 1

air in the pleural space, usually spontaneous

Question 2

describe the risk factors for developing a pneumothorax

Answer 2

tall, thin, men +/- cannabis use

Question 3

give some causes of a pneumothorax

Answer 3

asthma, COPD, carcinoma, TB, pneumonia

Question 4

describe the symptoms of a pneumothorax

Answer 4

can be asymptomatic(fit young people)

can be sudden onset dyspnoea +/- pleuritic chest pain

Question 5

describe the signs of a pneumothorax

Answer 5

reduced chest expansion, hyperresonance and diminished breath sounds on affected side

Question 6

describe the sign of a tension pneumothorax

Answer 6

tracheal deviation to opposite side of effected

Question 7

what investigations are done for a pneumothorax

Answer 7

CXR(no lung markings) and ABGs

Question 8

how do the investigations for a normal pneumothorax and a tension pneumothorax differ

Answer 8

tension pnuemothorax don’t bother with CXR it will waste time

Question 9

when would a patient receive no treatment for a pneumothorax

Answer 9

if its small(<2cm) and they are asymptomatic

Question 10

describe the treatment of a non tension pneumothorax

Answer 10

percutaneous aspiration/chest drain at 4/5th intercostal space, midaxillary line

Question 11

describe the treatment of a tension pneumothorax

Answer 11

large bore cannula, 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line