Flail Chest Flashcards
(12 cards)
what are the common symptoms
Rapid, shallow respirations, tachycardia, asymmetric and uncoordinated chest movement.
what helps with attempt to breathe with flail chest
splint the chest to reduce pain and assist with breathing.
how is pain managed
Analgesia, including NSAIDs, opioids, or nerve blocks, to promote adequate respiration.
what is flail chest diagnosed by
Clinical assessment (paradoxical movement), crepitus near rib fractures, and chest x-ray.
what are the complications of flail chest
Lung contusion, hypoxemia, respiratory distress.
which tests confirm flail chest
Chest x-ray and possibly CT scan for detailed rib and lung injury assessment
what is the treatment
adequate ventilation and provide supplemental oxygen therapy.
when is ventilation required
severe respiratory distress, hypoxemia, or lung contusion.
when is surgery done for flail chest
cases of extreme deformity
What should patients expect regarding recovery from flail chest?
Ribs and lung tissue will heal over time, but intercostal pain may persist for weeks.
which breathing practices should pt do
Deep breathing, incentive spirometry, and controlled coughing to prevent complications.
what does mobility do for flail chest recovery
helps prevent pneumonia and lung complications.
