Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Academic Term
Summer 8-3-2022
Document Type
Project
Course Number
NURS6810
Course Name
Advanced Pathophysiology for APN
Professor’s Name
Dr. Batross
Keywords
Pneumothorax, VATS, Spontaneous Pneumothorax, Pleurodesis, Collapsed Lung, Tension Pneumothorax
Subject Categories
Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing
Abstract
Pneumothorax is the presence of air or gas in the pleural space caused by rupture in the visceral pleura of the parietal pleura and chest wall. A pneumothorax is the most common thoracic disease affecting adolescence and young adults. There are several types of pneumothoraxes including spontaneous pneumothorax caused by the rupture of a bleb, usually in relatively healthily individuals. Secondary pneumothoraxes are cause by trauma or diseases. Penetrating/ blunt trauma, surgical intervention, COPD/emphysema, and mechanical ventilation are all risk factors associated with secondary pneumothorax. Common symptoms are sharp chest pains on inspiration, shortness of breath and tachypnea. Is some case, as in tension pneumothoraxes, these symptoms can be life threatening. Chest tubes are often inserted to alleviate the trapped air and help expand the affected lung. In other cases, surgery and pleurisies are warranted. The purpose of this poster is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and management of pneumothoraxes.
Licensing Permission
Copyright, all rights reserved. Fair Use
Recommended Citation
Wenger, Jennifer, "Pneumothorax" (2022). Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN). 518.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_msn/518