Assessment findings of a patient ejected from a motorcycle indicate that he has a flail chest wall segment to his right anterior chest. He exhibits labored breathing and an SpO₂ at 94%. Breath sounds are clear and equal bilaterally. The segment has been stabilized, and you are prepared to start positive pressure ventilation. Given these assessment findings, what type of injury underlying the flail segment is your primary concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary concern underlying the flail segment is a pulmonary contusion. A pulmonary contusion is a bruise to the lung tissue that can occur during a chest injury, such as being ejected from a motorcycle. It can impair gas exchange and cause hypoxemia, as well as lead to further complications. While rib fractures or pneumothorax could also be present, they are secondary concerns to the primary issue of a pulmonary contusion. A hemothorax may also occur with a chest injury, but is not specifically related to the flail segment.

Assessment Findings of a Patient Ejected from a Motorcycle Indicate