You suspect a trauma patient to be suffering from a hemothorax to the left lung. What assessment finding would reinforce this suspicion?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Respiratory distress and the signs and symptoms of shock would be the most significant finding to reinforce the suspicion of a hemothorax. A hemothorax is the accumulation of blood in the pleural space, which can lead to compression of the lung and impaired oxygenation, resulting in respiratory distress. Additionally, the loss of blood can lead to signs and symptoms of shock, such as tachycardia, hypotension, and increased respiratory rate. Neck vein distention and absent breath sounds to the right lung (A) would suggest a tension pneumothorax. Cyanosis and a blood pressure of 210/100 mmHg (B) would suggest severe hypoxia and hypertension, potentially due to pulmonary embolism. Bradycardia and hypertension (C) would be an unlikely finding in a patient with a hemothorax.

You Suspect a Trauma Patient to Be Suffering from a Hemothorax