what are you going to do? how do the interventions reverse/stable the patho (main body)

Question 1

What are you going to do? why? why not?

Pneumothorax

Answer 1

Titrate 02, assist ventilation if needed, ( causion as any positive pressure ventilation can increase the size of the pneumo.
Preform needle thoracocentesis = insertion of wide bore 14g cannula connected to a 10 or 20ml syringe. Insert through the second intercostal space mid-clavicular line on the injured side.
This will ensure rapid decompression, allow the lung to re-inflate and restore homeostasis.
IV ascess
Consider fluids - 250ml if signs of shock
Morphine - Caution for resp. depression 1-2ml every 5mins. can reduce pre-load and RR.
NO ENTONOX - risk of enlarging the pneuo.

Question 2

Haemothorax

Answer 2

O2, assist ventilation if needed

treat for hypovoleamia and shock