Question

You are caring for a patient who developed a tension pneumothorax after several hours of positive-pressure ventilation. Which of the following would be the most appropriate site for needle decompression?

a.Over the third rib at the midclavicular line
b.Under the eighth rib at the midaxillary line
c.Over the fifth rib at the sternal border
d.Under the sixth rib at the midclavicular line

Answer 1

The correct site for needle decompression in a tension pneumothorax is over the third rib at the midclavicular line, which is the second intercostal space.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate site for needle decompression in a patient who has developed a tension pneumothorax after positive-pressure ventilation is over the third rib at the midclavicular line. This is the location traditionally recommended for emergency needle decompression to relieve the pressure from a tension pneumothorax. The needle is inserted at the second intercostal space (just above the third rib) to avoid damage to the neurovascular bundle that runs along the inferior border of each rib.