Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Author: Jason B Lee / Editors: Jason M Kendall / Reviewers: Sarah Hickin-Yacoub, Caitriona Considine, Ahmad Alabood / Code: A2 / Published: 29/01/2024

This session covers the assessment and management of primary, secondary and tension pneumothoraces. It includes the use of radiograph investigations, needle aspiration and chest drain insertion.

After completing this session you will be able to:

• Identify and categorise pneumothorax size on a chest radiograph
• Explain the difference in management between primary and secondary pneumothoraces
• Differentiate those patients that require admission from those that can be discharged from the emergency department
• Describe how to safely insert a chest drain using a Seldinger technique
• Give advice to a patient regarding future flying and diving

References

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