Tension pnemothorax Flashcards
What is tension pneumothorax?
A life-threatening condition where air enters the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased pressure.
True or False: Tension pneumothorax can occur spontaneously.
True
What is the main cause of tension pneumothorax?
Air trapping in the pleural space due to a one-way valve effect.
Fill in the blank: Tension pneumothorax can lead to _____ collapse.
lung
List two common symptoms of tension pneumothorax.
Shortness of breath and chest pain.
What happens to the mediastinum in tension pneumothorax?
It shifts away from the affected side.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a sign of tension pneumothorax? A) Tracheal deviation B) Hypotension C) Bradycardia D) Hypoxia
C) Bradycardia
What is the primary treatment for tension pneumothorax?
Needle decompression followed by chest tube insertion.
True or False: Tension pneumothorax can be diagnosed with a chest X-ray.
True
What type of breathing may be observed in a patient with tension pneumothorax?
Rapid and shallow breathing.
Fill in the blank: In tension pneumothorax, the affected lung is _____.
compressed
What is the role of the pleura in tension pneumothorax?
The pleura normally allow for lung expansion, but in tension pneumothorax, air accumulation disrupts this.
Name one potential complication of untreated tension pneumothorax.
Cardiac arrest.
Multiple Choice: Which demographic is at higher risk for tension pneumothorax? A) Young children B) Elderly women C) Young adult males D) Middle-aged men
C) Young adult males
What physical exam finding is commonly associated with tension pneumothorax?
Decreased breath sounds on the affected side.
True or False: Tension pneumothorax can resolve on its own without intervention.
False
What is the typical progression of symptoms in tension pneumothorax?
Rapid deterioration in respiratory and cardiovascular status.
Fill in the blank: Tension pneumothorax occurs when the _____ pressure exceeds atmospheric pressure.
intrapleural
What emergency procedure is performed to relieve tension pneumothorax?
Needle thoracostomy.
Multiple Choice: Which imaging modality is most useful in diagnosing tension pneumothorax? A) MRI B) Ultrasound C) CT scan D) Chest X-ray
D) Chest X-ray
What sound may be heard on auscultation in tension pneumothorax?
Diminished or absent breath sounds.
Name one mechanism that can cause tension pneumothorax.
Trauma or mechanical ventilation.
True or False: Tension pneumothorax is more common in patients with existing lung disease.
True
What vital sign changes may indicate tension pneumothorax?
Tachycardia and hypotension.
Fill in the blank: The immediate management of tension pneumothorax is _____.
urgent
What long-term management might be necessary after a tension pneumothorax?
Placement of a chest tube for continuous drainage.
