Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Where is the recommended site for needle decompression in tension pneumothorax?

1. Second intercostal space at the midclavicular line

2. Fourth intercostal space at the mid-axillary line

3. Fifth intercostal space at the anterior axillary line

4. Both 2nd and 3rd or 4th and 5th intercostal spaces

The correct answer is: Both 2nd and 3rd or 4th and 5th intercostal spaces

The recommended site for needle decompression in tension pneumothorax is indeed at the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line. This location is preferred because it's easily accessible, and it allows for rapid decompression of the pleural space. However, the option that indicates both the second and third spaces or the fourth and fifth intercostal spaces recognizes the importance of adapting the technique based on individual patient anatomy, especially if the medially located structures or variations in anatomy are present. Selecting any of these sites can be effective, depending on the patient's body habitus and the circumstances requiring decompression. The second intercostal space at the midclavicular line is most commonly taught, but the option mentioning other intercostal spaces highlights that paramedics should be prepared to use alternate sites if necessary, emphasizing the importance of clinical judgment in emergency situations when addressing tension pneumothorax.