Question

"You are assessing an adult patient experiencing sudden-onset chest pain and dyspnea. He quickly exhibits jugular vein distension and cool, clammy skin. His trachea is midline, but there are palpable air pockets under the skin on his upper chest on the left side that feel as though they pop or vanish when you palpate them. What is this abnormal finding?

A. Subcutaneous emphysema

B. Atelectasis

C. Pitting edema

D. Ascites"

Answer 1

Subcutaneous emphysema is the abnormal finding described. It is characterized by air leaks from the respiratory system into the tissues under the skin, causing a popping or vanishing sensation when palpated. Medical attention is necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

The abnormal finding described in the question is subcutaneous emphysema. Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air leaks from the respiratory system into the tissues under the skin. This can cause a characteristic popping or vanishing sensation when palpated. The presence of jugular vein distension, cool, clammy skin, and other symptoms described suggest a potential underlying condition such as a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or a ruptured lung condition like spontaneous pneumothorax. Immediate medical attention is necessary.