Which of the following is true regarding the physiology of an open pneumothorax?
Air cannot pass freely into the thoracic cavity through a chest wound.
The air is trapped when it enters the cavity.
Air moves in and out of a wound in the chest wall.
There are no audible sounds in an open pneumothorax.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Air cannot pass freely into the thoracic cavity through a chest wound is incorrect because air can indeed pass freely into the thoracic cavity through the chest wound in an open pneumothorax.
Choice B Reason:
The air is trapped when it enters the cavity is incorrect because the characteristic feature of an open pneumothorax is that air is not trapped; rather, it enters the thoracic cavity with each inhalation and exits with each exhalation through the chest wound.
Choice C Reason:
Air moves in and out of a wound in the chest wall is correct. In an open pneumothorax, also known as a "sucking chest wound," air can freely move in and out of the thoracic cavity through a wound in the chest wall. This occurs due to the creation of a communication pathway between the external environment and the pleural space, typically caused by a penetrating injury to the chest.
Choice D Reason:
There are no audible sounds in an open pneumothorax is incorrect because in an open pneumothorax, there may be audible sounds associated with the movement of air in and out of the wound, such as a sucking or bubbling sound, depending on the size and location of the wound. These sounds can be clinically significant and aid in the diagnosis of an open pneumothorax.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Prothrombin time (PT) is a laboratory test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot is incorrect. While PT may be part of a comprehensive evaluation in some cases, it is not typically the initial diagnostic test performed for a TIA. A TIA is caused by a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, often due to an embolus or transient blockage in a cerebral artery, rather than a primary disorder of blood clotting.
Choice B Reason:
Complete blood count (CBC) is incorrect. A complete blood count (CBC) is a common laboratory test that evaluates the cellular components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. While CBC can provide valuable information about hematological conditions such as anemia or thrombocytosis, it is not specific to diagnosing the cause of a TIA. TIA is primarily a vascular event related to transient ischemia in the brain rather than a disorder of blood cell counts.
Choice C Reason:
Computerized tomography angiography (CTA) is appropriate. CTA is a non-invasive imaging test that combines computed tomography (CT) scanning with contrast dye to visualize blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the brain. CTA can help identify any blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities in the blood vessels supplying the brain, which may be contributing to the TIA. It provides detailed images of the blood vessels' structure and can help guide further management and treatment decisions.
Choice D Reason:
Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is inappropriate. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an imaging test that provides detailed images of the heart and major blood vessels using sound waves. While TEE may be indicated in some cases of TIA to evaluate for potential cardiac sources of emboli (blood clots), such as atrial fibrillation or cardiac valve abnormalities, it is not typically the first-line diagnostic test performed in the emergency department setting for evaluating a TIA. Initial imaging studies such as CTA or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are usually prioritized to assess for acute changes in cerebral blood flow and potential causes of the TIA.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
MS hug is appropriate. The "MS hug" is a colloquial term used to describe a sensation of tightness, pressure, or squeezing around the torso or chest area experienced by some individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is caused by spasms or contractions of the intercostal muscles (muscles between the ribs) or the diaphragm due to lesions in the spinal cord disrupting nerve signals. This sensation can be uncomfortable or painful for the individual.
Choice B Reason:
Lhermitte's sign is inappropriate. Lhermitte's sign is a common symptom experienced by individuals with MS but it presents differently. It is characterized by an electric shock-like sensation that radiates down the spine and into the limbs, typically triggered by flexing the neck forward. It is caused by damage to the spinal cord's myelin sheath, leading to abnormal nerve signal transmission.
Choice C Reason:
Paroxysmal spasms is inappropriate. Paroxysmal spasms are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions or jerking movements that can occur in various parts of the body. While spasms are common in MS, they are not specifically associated with the sensation of tightness around the torso as described in the scenario.
Choice D Reason:
Trigeminal neuralgia is inappropriate. Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition characterized by sudden, severe facial pain often described as stabbing or electric shock-like. It is caused by irritation or damage to the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensation. While individuals with MS may experience trigeminal neuralgia, it typically does not present with a tightening feeling around the torso.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today