Pleural gas/pneumothorax (PNX)

• View:
  Lateral and VD
  
  
• Defining characteristics:
  The air within the pleural space, displacement of the heart from the sternum, retraction of the lung margins for the thoracic walls
  
  
• Common differential diagnoses:
  Pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum
  
  
• Helpful additional data:
  Was there associated trauma (HBC, BDLD)? Has the patient been having labored breathing for a period of time?
  
  
• Commonly associated diagnostics:
  Consider thoracic ultrasound if available
  
  
• Commonly associated treatments:
  Stabilization as needed, supportive care (oxygen), symptomatic treatment, discuss corrective options (set up for thoracocentesis)
  
  
• Commonly associated home care:
  Based on the primary cause