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

- anticoagulation therapy

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.