Needle thoracentesis is used to diagnose and treat a tension pneumothorax. These patients typically experience significant respiratory distress and may also have: -Tracheal deviation -Unexplained hypotension -Unilateral absence of breath sounds -Presence of distended neck veins -Hypertympanic percussion note over affected side. This 5-minute video uses images, models, and live-action to show the development of a tension pneumothorax and its' treatment using a 14 gauge needle inserted just above the 3rd rib in the midclavicular line. |
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