Open pneumothorax — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: C — Apply a vented chest seal and monitor for tension physiology

Apply a vented chest seal and monitor for tension physiology is the best answer because a sucking chest wound should be sealed with a vented dressing while watching for deterioration. Wait for imaging before intervening is less appropriate because imaging is not available or appropriate before treating a clinical life threat; Transport without treating the identified time-critical problem is less appropriate because movement alone may not reverse the immediate physiology. Delay intervention until arrival at hospital and Give a large crystalloid bolus before controlling the injury are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; ATACC Manual