What is a common sign of tension pneumothorax?

What is a common sign of tension pneumothorax?

• A. Hyperresonance on percussion
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Decreased work of breathing
• D. Flat jugular veins

Answer: (A)

A common sign of tension pneumothorax is hyperresonance on percussion. This occurs because the accumulation of air in the pleural space leads to increased pressure and the displacement of lung tissue. When percussing over the affected area, the sound produced is high-pitched and has a drum-like quality, indicating the presence of excess air. This sign is significant as it helps differentiate tension pneumothorax from other respiratory or thoracic conditions. In comparison, the other options do not present typical signs associated with tension pneumothorax. For instance, bradycardia is generally not linked to this condition; rather, tension pneumothorax typically results in tachycardia due to the body's compensatory response to hypoxia. Decreased work of breathing does not align with tension pneumothorax, where respiratory distress typically escalates due to compromised lung function. Lastly, flat jugular veins contradicted the typical finding of jugular vein distension in tension pneumothorax, where the increased intrathoracic pressure often prevents venous return to the heart, causing swelling and elevated jugular veins. Thus, the presence of hyperresonance is a key indicator to recognize this acute emergency.

A common sign of tension pneumothorax is hyperresonance on percussion. This occurs because the accumulation of air in the pleural space leads to increased pressure and the displacement of lung tissue. When percussing over the affected area, the sound produced is high-pitched and has a drum-like quality, indicating the presence of excess air.

This sign is significant as it helps differentiate tension pneumothorax from other respiratory or thoracic conditions. In comparison, the other options do not present typical signs associated with tension pneumothorax. For instance, bradycardia is generally not linked to this condition; rather, tension pneumothorax typically results in tachycardia due to the body's compensatory response to hypoxia. Decreased work of breathing does not align with tension pneumothorax, where respiratory distress typically escalates due to compromised lung function. Lastly, flat jugular veins contradicted the typical finding of jugular vein distension in tension pneumothorax, where the increased intrathoracic pressure often prevents venous return to the heart, causing swelling and elevated jugular veins. Thus, the presence of hyperresonance is a key indicator to recognize this acute emergency.