Which of the following findings differentiates a simple pneumothorax from a tension pneumothorax?
A) Decreased breath sounds on the affected side
B) Hemodynamic compromise
C) Absent breath sounds on the affected side
D) An open defect in the chest wall

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hemodynamic compromise is a key finding in a tension pneumothorax, but not in a simple pneumothorax. A simple pneumothorax may cause decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side, but this is not a differentiating factor as it can also be present in a tension pneumothorax. An open defect in the chest wall would suggest a traumatic pneumothorax but not necessarily differentiate between a simple or tension pneumothorax.

Which of the Following Findings Differentiates a Simple Pneumothorax from a Tension