Final answer:
Tension pneumothorax is identified by symptoms and confirmed with imaging, and treated initially with needle decompression followed by chest tube placement to allow lung re-expansion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identification and Treatment of Tension Pneumothorax
Tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space which cannot escape, leading to increased intrapleural pressure and subsequent collapse of the lung. Clinicians may identify a tension pneumothorax through symptoms of sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and sometimes visible chest deformity. Diagnosis is often confirmed with imaging, such as a chest X-ray or ultrasound, showing the collapsed lung and the shift of mediastinal structures.
Initial treatment for tension pneumothorax involves immediate needle decompression, followed by the placement of a chest tube to allow continuous evacuation of air. It is essential to act quickly to decompress the pleural space, as the increased intrapleural pressure can lead to life-threatening changes in the cardiovascular system. Needle decompression typically occurs by inserting a large-bore needle into the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line, which relieves the pressure and allows the lung to re-expand.
Following needle decompression, definitive treatment includes the insertion of a chest tube (thoracostomy) to allow for the lung to fully re-expand and heal. This procedure often involves qualified healthcare professionals to insert a catheter into the pleural space to maintain the negative pressure essential for lung expansion. Monitoring and supportive care in a medical facility are also key components of managing a patient with tension pneumothorax.