NREMT Paramedic Practice

What characterizes a tension pneumothorax?

1. Air exits the pleural space easily

2. Air becomes trapped in the pleural space

3. Fluid accumulation in the pleural space

4. Normal intrathoracic pressure

The correct answer is: Air becomes trapped in the pleural space

A tension pneumothorax is characterized by air becoming trapped in the pleural space, which leads to increased pressure within the thoracic cavity. This accumulation of air disrupts the normal mechanics of breathing and can compromise cardiovascular function. As pressure builds up, it can cause mediastinal shift, reducing venous return to the heart and leading to cardiovascular instability. Recognizing this condition is crucial, as it requires immediate intervention to relieve the pressure, typically through needle decompression or chest tube insertion. While options relating to fluid accumulation or normal intrathoracic pressure may seem plausible, they do not accurately reflect the nature of a tension pneumothorax, which specifically involves trapped air and the resultant pressure increase within the pleural space, rather than fluid accumulation or a state of normal pressure.