A 23-year-old female has been involved in a serious motor vehicle collision. Which assessment finding best indicates that she has a flail segment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Paradoxical chest wall movement is the classic finding indicating a flail segment. It occurs when a portion of the chest wall moves in the opposite direction of normal during inspiration and expiration due to the loss of support from underlying ribs. Shortness of breath, intense pain with inspiration, and decreasing SpO₂ readings may also be seen in a patient with a flail segment, but paradoxical chest wall movement is the most specific finding.

A 23-Year-Old Female Has Been Involved in a Serious Motor