A 25-year-old is involved in a high-speed RTA and presents with signs of a tension pneumothorax: respiratory distress, tracheal deviation, hypotension...

Question

A 25-year-old is involved in a high-speed RTA and presents with signs of a tension pneumothorax: respiratory distress, tracheal deviation, hypotension. According to ATLS guidelines, what is the immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Needle decompression in the 2nd intercostal space

Answer

High-flow oxygen only

Answer

Immediate chest drain insertion in the 5th intercostal space

Answer

Urgent chest X-ray

Answer

Immediate intubation

Tension pneumothorax — MRCEM SBA MCQ

A 25-year-old is involved in a high-speed RTA and presents with signs of a tension pneumothorax: respiratory distress, tracheal deviation, hypotension. According to ATLS guidelines, what is the immediate management?