CEA Nursing Practice Exam

In the case of suspected tension pneumothorax, what x-ray finding would you expect?

1. The trachea shifted toward the unaffected side

2. The trachea shifted toward the pneumothorax

3. The trachea midline with no movement

4. The trachea shifting away from the pneumothorax

The correct answer is: The trachea shifted toward the unaffected side

In the case of a suspected tension pneumothorax, one key radiological finding is that the trachea shifts away from the affected side. A tension pneumothorax occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased intrathoracic pressure. As this pressure rises, it compresses the lung and may also displace mediastinal structures, including the trachea. Choosing the option where the trachea shifts toward the unaffected side aligns with the physiology of tension pneumothorax. In such scenarios, the increased pressure on the side of the pneumothorax forces the trachea and other mediastinal structures away from the pneumothorax. This displacement is a critical indicator for the diagnosis and should be considered in the context of the patient’s clinical presentation. Understanding the mechanics behind tension pneumothorax helps clarify why mediastinal shifts are relevant in imaging. This emphasizes the importance of accurate interpretation of chest x-ray findings in emergency situations.