PNEUMOTHORAX AND QUIZ QUESTIONS


                                Pneumothorax

Scenario: A patient was involved in a car accident. 
Trauma to the chest area, has resulted in a pneumothorax.
He was also having difficulty breathing, so the medical team
initiated CPR and placed an ETT ( endotracheal tube). 
An AMBU bag is being used to deliver oxygen, while being
transported to a healthcare facility. 

Signs and symptoms of a pneumothorax:
- shortness of breath
- breath sounds are diminished on the affected side
- tracheal deviation away from the side of the pneumothorax
- distended neck veins
- the heart may also become compressed





Defining Pneumothorax
 
There are two lungs ( right and left) located in the chest cavity.
There are two membranes that cover the lungs. The inner membrane
is in direct contact with the lungs. The outer layer is in contact with
the chest wall.

There is serous fluid between these layers, as well as negative pressure
in this space, known as the pleural space. If air enters this space and makes
a change in pressure ( positive), it compresses the lungs, causing a pneumothorax.
Learn more : ARDS

Causes of a pneumothorax

A pneumothorax may be caused by a penetrating chest wound, like a gunshot
or stab wound. Lung infection, cancer or barotrauma may also cause this condition.

Diagnosis and treatment
Chest XRay will confirm a pneumothorax. Chest tube insertion is usually done.
Close monitoring of vital signs, O2 saturation, pain medication, oxygen as needed
and documentation of interventions are included in the care.
Learn more: Medication errors




QUIZ QUESTIONS
1. What is a pneumothorax?
2. What are some signs and symptoms of a pneumothorax?
3. What is an AMBU bag used for? 
4.What are some causes of a pneumothorax?
5. How is it treated?



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