ASSESSMENT OF HEMOTHORAX

                             Hemothorax - The Clinical picture

The patient in the image above, is showing signs of anxiety.
The signs and symptoms shown are an indication that she is
having a hemothorax. They include:
-Tachypnea, tachycardia, 
- cyanosis, hypotension 
- a decrease in breath sounds on the affected side
Chest pain may also occur, as a result of lack of oxygen.




What is a hemothorax?

A Hemothorax is an accumulation of blood in the pleural space.
This may occur for a number of reasons. Causes include:
- blunt or penetrating trauma
- thoracic surgery or aneurysm

Helpful hints:
- Reassurance and assessment
- vital signs, O2 SAT's and oxygen
- checking lung sounds
- documentation of interventions
- help if needed and notify MD for orders
Learn more: Cardiogenic Shock

Chest X-ray is usually done to confirm diagnosis. 
Chest tube insertion is done by the doctor, to remove
the blood in the pleural space.

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