Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

For a 23-year-old male patient with an asymptomatic pneumothorax and no breath sounds on the left side, what is the recommended course of action?

1. Perform decompression

2. Provide positive pressure ventilation

3. Just transport

4. Administer supplemental oxygen

The correct answer is: Just transport

In the case of a 23-year-old male patient with an asymptomatic pneumothorax and no breath sounds detected on the left side, the most appropriate course of action is to transport the patient. An asymptomatic pneumothorax typically does not require immediate invasive interventions, especially if the patient is stable and showing no signs of respiratory distress or other complications. Transporting the patient allows for continuous monitoring while ensuring they receive further evaluation and treatment in a controlled medical environment. It is crucial to observe the patient for any changes that may develop during transport. Medical personnel can then make informed decisions based on the patient's condition and any new symptoms that may arise. Other options, such as performing decompression or providing positive pressure ventilation, are more suitable for symptomatic patients or cases where significant respiratory distress exists, as they could lead to complications if unnecessary treatment is administered. Administering supplemental oxygen may be beneficial, but it is not the primary concern for an asymptomatic patient with a pneumothorax. This underscores the importance of assessing the patient's overall stability before deciding on intervention.