Question

a patient presents, after a 25-foot fall, with paradoxical chest wall movement to the right lower chest and complaints of shortness of breath. what is the priority intervention?

Answer 1

The priority intervention for a patient with paradoxical chest wall movement and shortness of breath after a 25-foot fall is to expand the chest wall outward to improve ventilation and decrease intrathoracic pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority intervention for a patient presenting with paradoxical chest wall movement and complaints of shortness of breath after a 25-foot fall is to expand the chest wall outward. By expanding the chest wall outward, the intrapleural pressure drops, and air is drawn into the airways, improving ventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In cases of paradoxical chest wall movement, there is an abnormal inward movement of a portion of the chest wall during inspiration, instead of the normal outward expansion. This can be due to an underlying injury or trauma, such as a flail chest.

To address paradoxical chest wall movement and improve ventilation, it is important to expand the chest wall outward. This can be done through various techniques, such as providing positive pressure ventilation with a bag-valve-mask or mechanical ventilator, using chest tubes to address any pneumothorax or hemothorax, or providing support with a thoracoabdominal binder.

The goal of expanding the chest wall outward is to decrease the intrathoracic pressure, allowing for proper lung expansion and improved ventilation. This can help alleviate the patient's shortness of breath and ensure adequate oxygenation.

Answer 2

The priority intervention is to provide immediate medical attention and stabilize the patient's condition. This may include oxygen administration and medication for pain and breathing. In severe cases, intubation or chest tube insertion may be necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority intervention for a patient presenting with paradoxical chest wall movement to the right lower chest and complaints of shortness of breath after a 25-foot fall is to provide immediate medical attention and stabilize the patient's condition. This may include administering oxygen to improve oxygenation and using medications to manage pain and facilitate breathing.

In severe cases, the patient may require intubation or chest tube insertion to relieve tension pneumothorax or assist with breathing. The healthcare team should also closely monitor vital signs and perform appropriate diagnostic tests, such as chest radiographs, to assess for any underlying injuries or conditions.