When assessing the chest of a patient who was shot multiple times, you find a gunshot wound to the third intercostal space on the left lateral chest. Which one of the following should you do immediately?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In cases of penetrating trauma to the chest, it is important to cover the opening with a gloved hand to prevent air from entering the wound and causing a tension pneumothorax. Checking for equality of breath sounds and initiating positive pressure ventilation may be necessary steps, but covering the wound should be done first to prevent further complications. Rolling the patient and looking for an exit wound may also be important, but this can be done after covering the wound.

When Assessing the Chest of a Patient Who Was Shot