Definition & Operational Usage of Pneumothorax
What Is Pneumothorax?
Manifesting as a collection of trapped air in the pleural space, this traumatic or spontaneous condition causes partial or total lung collapse, impairing gas exchange.
⚠️ Operational Safety Warning:Applying positive pressure ventilation (BVM) to a simple pneumothorax can convert it into a lethal tension pneumothorax.
Why Pneumothorax Matters on the Fireground
Can rapidly progress to a tension state, compressing the vena cava and leading to obstructive shock.
Relevant NFPA Standards
- NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
- NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Field Procedures & Tactical Steps
- Auscultate for diminished or absent lung sounds unilaterally.
- Check for jugular vein distension (JVD) or tracheal deviation.
- Apply a vented chest seal to any open torso wounds.
- Monitor oxygen saturation and blood pressure closely.
- Perform needle decompression if tension physiology develops.
Common Context & Application
Seen in blunt trauma, stab wounds, or spontaneous bleb ruptures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pneumothorax
What is a tension pneumothorax?
Air under pressure in the chest shifting the mediastinum.
How is an open wound treated?
With a vented occlusive dressing.
Other Names for Pneumothorax
collapsed lungair leakpleural air
Pneumothorax may also appear in training materials, NFPA standards, or department SOPs as: collapsed lung, air leak, pleural air.
Relevant Tools
Operational calculators related to Pneumothorax:
Category:EMS & Medical
— Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.