The nurse is caring for a patient on mechanical ventilation with positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP). When assessing the patient, which of the following findings would indicate the possibility of tension pneumothorax?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tension pneumothorax is a potential complication of mechanical ventilation with PEEP. One of the classic signs of tension pneumothorax is decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side. The other choices are not specific to tension pneumothorax. A blood pressure of 170/80 may be elevated but does not necessarily indicate tension pneumothorax. Pulse oximetry readings ranging from 94 to 96% indicate adequate oxygenation. Crackles and wheezing heard in both lungs could indicate other respiratory conditions but do not specifically point to tension pneumothorax.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient on Mechanical Ventilation