Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What condition is indicated by flat neck veins, mid-line trachea, and dullness on percussion of the chest?

1. Cardiac Tamponade

2. Pneumothorax

3. Hemothorax

4. Pulmonary Embolism

The correct answer is: Hemothorax

Flat neck veins, a mid-line trachea, and dullness on percussion of the chest are clinical signs that suggest the presence of fluid in the pleural space, commonly associated with a hemothorax. When there is bleeding into the pleural cavity, it can lead to a collection of blood that occupies the space where air normally exists, causing the dullness on percussion, which is a hallmark sign when assessing for fluid. The trachea remaining mid-line indicates that there is no significant mediastinal shift, which would be expected in conditions like tension pneumothorax or large volume hemothorax. Flat neck veins suggest that there is no significant increase in intrathoracic pressure that often accompanies conditions like cardiac tamponade or tension pneumothorax, where we might instead expect distended neck veins. This combination of clinical findings leads to the conclusion that a hemothorax is present, making it the most appropriate answer in this situation. Other conditions such as cardiac tamponade, pneumothorax, or pulmonary embolism exhibit different signs and symptoms that do not align as closely with the findings noted in the question.