Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

If a patient has a documented pneumothorax without respiratory distress, what is the preferred treatment?

1. Chest tube insertion

2. Observation and monitoring

3. Immediate decompression

4. Administration of diuretics

The correct answer is: Observation and monitoring

When a patient has a documented pneumothorax but is not exhibiting respiratory distress, the preferred treatment involves observation and monitoring. This approach is based on the understanding that a small pneumothorax may resolve on its own without intervention. Many patients can maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation, and the risk of complications is minimal. Monitoring allows healthcare providers to assess the pneumothorax for changes in size or symptoms that may develop over time. If the patient's condition remains stable and there are no signs of progression or respiratory compromise, ongoing observation is usually sufficient. This strategy is particularly relevant in cases where the pneumothorax is small and the patient is asymptomatic, emphasizing the body's ability to manage minor conditions without immediate invasive measures. Other options, such as chest tube insertion or immediate decompression, are typically reserved for more severe cases where there are significant symptoms or large collections of air in the pleural space that could lead to respiratory failure. Administration of diuretics is not indicated for the treatment of pneumothorax and does not address the underlying issue.