During the observation portion of your examination, you note tracheal deviation in an athlete. The athlete also appears anxious and restless and is exhibiting a rapid, thready pulse. You note that the athlete is becoming hypotensive and may be on the verge of circulatory collapse. You also note a hyperresonant sound during your percussion. What condition is your athlete experiencing?
A) Simple pneumothorax
B) Tension pneumothorax
C) Open pneumothorax
D) None of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The athlete is likely experiencing a tension pneumothorax, indicated by symptoms such as tracheal deviation, anxiety and restlessness, rapid thready pulse, hypotension, potential circulatory collapse, and a hyperresonant sound on percussion. These are classic signs of tension pneumothorax, where air enters the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased intrathoracic pressure and subsequent cardiovascular compromise.

During the Observation Portion of Your Examination, You Note Tracheal