Question

A 28-year-old male has been stabbed in the chest with a hunting knife. As you perform your primary survey, you see that air is escaping from the wound. What is the reason for this?

- A) Increased blood flow
- B) Lung collapse
- C) Improved breathing
- D) Normal respiratory function

Answer 1

Air is likely escaping from the wound due to a puncture to the thoracic cavity, which can cause a collapsed lung and alter the ability to inhale.

Step-by-step explanation:

When air is escaping from a chest wound, it is likely due to a puncture to the thoracic cavity. This can alter the ability to inhale because it causes a collapsed lung. Increased airway resistance can result in a decrease in intrapleural pressure during inhalation.