Saca is correct...let me add one thing....tracheal deviation, low blood pressure are 'later' signs of tension PTX. If the patient has the signs or symptoms that make you even THINK that the patient has a PTX, just decompress it.....this is the VAIL RULE #1: if you think it, do it...when it comes to decompression or intubation. The worst they do is now buy a chest tube.
The free and open space created by the needle, decompresses the tension component but can give a simple PTX that can compromise some people....hence why I like those little one way valves I showed in another thread. Air gets out and can't rush back in.
If someone gets needle decompressed and decompensates, intubation or just providing positive pressure ventilation will expand the lung but damn, we breath by negative pressure ventilation without assistance.
Chest tubes are not a front line item, but a 10 or 12 gauge wire wrapped needle and a one way valve is just as good as a chest tube IMHO
Just use search: for fish tank valve and the thread will be there, I can't link it for some reason
http://www.professionalsoldiers.com/...ish+tank+valve
__________________
'Revel in action, translate perceptions into instant judgements, and these into actions that are irrevocable, monumentous and dreadful - all this with lightning speed, in conditions of great stress and in an environment of high tension:what is expected of "us" is the impossible, yet we deliver just that.
(adapted from: Sherwin B. Nuland, MD, surgeon and author: The Wisdom of the Body, 1997 )
Education is the anti-ignorance we all need to better treat our patients. ss, 2008.
The blade is so sharp that the incision is perfect. They don't realize they've been cut until they're out of the fight: A Surgeon Warrior. I use a knife to defend life and to save it. ss (aka traumadoc)
Last edited by Sacamuelas; 03-02-2005 at 09:11.
Reason: added link for you
|