A patient is brought to the critical care unit after a motor vehicle crash.On admission,the patient is complaining of dyspnea and chest pain.Upon examination,the nurse notes a lack of breath sounds on the left side and a tracheal shift.What would be the most likely diagnosis?
A) Pericardial tamponade
B) Symptomatic bradycardia
C) Tension pneumothorax
D) Unstable tachycardia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A tension pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space but cannot escape.Pressure increases in the pleural space and causes the lung to collapse.Symptoms of a tension pneumothorax include dyspnea,chest pain,tachypnea,tachycardia,and jugular venous distention.

A Patient Is Brought to the Critical Care Unit After