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Primary spontaneous pneumothorax — RACP Written MCQ

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HardRespiratoryPrimary spontaneous pneumothoraxRACP Written

A 23-year-old tall man has sudden right-sided pleuritic chest pain while at rest. Chest X-ray shows a 3 cm rim of air with partial lung collapse. He is haemodynamically stable and oxygen saturation is 97%. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Ambulatory aspiration or small-bore pleural drainage according to local pathway

A symptomatic moderate primary spontaneous pneumothorax in a stable patient is managed with aspiration or ambulatory small-bore drainage, depending on local expertise.

Reference: Australian Asthma Handbook; TSANZ guidance; Therapeutic Guidelines: Respiratory