Aircraft altitude and pneumothorax — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: C — Reassess for decompression need before flight and monitor closely during ascent

Reassess for decompression need before flight and monitor closely during ascent is the best answer because gas expansion at altitude can worsen trapped intrathoracic air and deterioration may be difficult to manage in flight. Immobilise every joint and delay departure for a detailed examination is less appropriate because prolonged packaging can delay definitive care; Give unrestricted crystalloid to normalise blood pressure is less appropriate because over-resuscitation can worsen bleeding when haemorrhage is uncontrolled. Provide reassurance and reassess after transport and Use oral analgesia as the main treatment 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: ATACC Manual; JRCALC Guidelines