- 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