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Spontaneous pneumothorax — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory emergenciesSpontaneous pneumothoraxRCPSC EM

CTAS 2. A tall 22-year-old has sudden pleuritic chest pain and mild dyspnoea. BP is 122/74 mmHg, HR 98, SpO2 96%, and breath sounds are reduced at the right apex. There are no signs of tension. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: E — Chest x-ray

Stable suspected spontaneous pneumothorax is usually confirmed with chest x-ray before size-based management decisions.

Reference: British Thoracic Society Pleural Disease Guideline; Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine