Question

Emergency decompression of a tension pneumothorax includes needle puncture at which of the following locations?

A. Fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the affected side
B. Second intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the affected side
C. Second intercostal space at the midaxillary line on the affected side
D. Fifth intercostal space at the midaxillary line on the affected side

Answer 1

Emergency decompression of a tension pneumothorax involves needle puncture at the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the affected side.

Step-by-step explanation:

Emergency decompression of a tension pneumothorax involves needle puncture at the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the affected side.

A tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency that occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse and compression of the heart and major blood vessels. Needle decompression is a lifesaving procedure that relieves the pressure and allows the lungs to reinflate.

The second intercostal space at the midclavicular line is the recommended location for needle puncture because it avoids potential injury to important structures and provides direct access to the pleural space.