Pneumothorax

Question 1

What is a pneumothorax?

Answer 1

An abnormal collection of air in the pleural space.

Question 2

What are causes of a pneumothorax?

Answer 2

Spontaneous
Secondary (to lung disease)
Iatrogenic
Trauma

Question 3

How is pneumothorax treated?

Answer 3

In an emergency, insert a large gauge cannula into the pleural cavity via the 2nd intercostal space at the midclavicular line.

Question 4

What sign will present in a tension pneumothorax?

Answer 4

Tracheal deviation (AWAY from the side affected).