Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What can cause tension pneumothorax?

1. Fluid overload

2. Chest trauma

3. Cardiac arrest

4. Sepsis

The correct answer is: Chest trauma

Tension pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased pressure that collapses the affected lung and can shift the mediastinum. Chest trauma is a common cause of tension pneumothorax, as it can lead to a rupture in the pleural cavity, allowing air to enter and become trapped during inhalation. This can happen from blunt or penetrating injuries, such as rib fractures or stab wounds, which can create a one-way valve effect. The rapid accumulation of air increases intrathoracic pressure, compromising cardiovascular function and necessitating immediate intervention. While fluid overload, cardiac arrest, and sepsis may lead to other significant medical issues, they are not direct causes of tension pneumothorax. Fluid overload primarily affects fluid balance and may contribute to pulmonary edema, but does not cause air to accumulate in the pleural space. Cardiac arrest poses immediate life-threatening challenges but does not lead directly to the pressure-induced state of tension pneumothorax. Sepsis can lead to various complications but does not cause the direct mechanical obstruction and pressure dynamics characteristic of a tension pneumothorax. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing and treating tension pneumothorax in a pre-hospital setting effectively