Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What method should be prioritized to treat a patient with tension pneumothorax?

1. Immediate surgery

2. Needle decompression

3. Administering steroids

4. Intubation

The correct answer is: Needle decompression

For a patient presenting with tension pneumothorax, the priority is to quickly relieve the pressure in the pleural space to restore respiratory function and prevent cardiovascular collapse. Needle decompression is the recommended first-line intervention because it is a rapid, minimally invasive procedure that allows trapped air to escape from the pleural cavity. By doing so, it decreases intrathoracic pressure and re-expands the lung on the affected side, which is critical in stabilizing the patient’s condition. Although immediate surgery may be necessary in cases where needle decompression is not effective or complications arise, it is not the first step in emergency management. Administering steroids is not a relevant intervention for tension pneumothorax, as it does not address the immediate mechanical issue. Intubation may be needed later if the patient is unable to maintain their airway due to respiratory distress; however, it does not resolve the underlying problem of the pneumothorax itself. Therefore, needle decompression is the most appropriate and immediate course of action to treat tension pneumothorax effectively.