Tension Pneumothorax

Question 1

What is this a presentation of?
Respiratory distress, cyanosis, tachycardia, tachypnoea, hypotension, distended neck veins, tracheal deviation, hyperresonant percussion, diminished breath sounds.

Answer 1

Tension pneumothorax

Question 2

How is a tension pneumothorax managed?

Answer 2

1. If involving hemithorax - should be decompressed immediately, do not CXR before.
2. 100% oxygen
3. Immediate insertion of 14G cannula for aspiration.
4. Add formal chest drain for definitive management.
5. CXR afterwards