Which sign is NOT typically associated with tension pneumothorax?

Which sign is NOT typically associated with tension pneumothorax?

• A. Altered mental status.
• B. Unilaterally absent breath sounds.
• C. Profound cyanosis.
• D. Collapsed jugular veins.

Answer: (D)

In cases of tension pneumothorax, certain clinical signs and symptoms are characteristic due to the buildup of pressure in the pleural space, which compresses the lung and potentially affects cardiovascular function. Collapsed jugular veins is not typically associated with tension pneumothorax. Instead, pressure in the thoracic cavity usually pushes the structures of the mediastinum, causing distended jugular veins due to increased venous pressure. On the other hand, altered mental status can occur as a result of hypoxia due to compromised ventilation. Unilaterally absent breath sounds are also a hallmark of this condition, as the affected lung will not be able to produce breath sounds if it is collapsed. Profound cyanosis indicates severe hypoxia and can be seen in tension pneumothorax due to impaired oxygen exchange. Therefore, the presence of distended jugular veins instead of collapsed veins further emphasizes that collapsed jugular veins is not a typical indicator of tension pneumothorax.

In cases of tension pneumothorax, certain clinical signs and symptoms are characteristic due to the buildup of pressure in the pleural space, which compresses the lung and potentially affects cardiovascular function. Collapsed jugular veins is not typically associated with tension pneumothorax. Instead, pressure in the thoracic cavity usually pushes the structures of the mediastinum, causing distended jugular veins due to increased venous pressure.

On the other hand, altered mental status can occur as a result of hypoxia due to compromised ventilation. Unilaterally absent breath sounds are also a hallmark of this condition, as the affected lung will not be able to produce breath sounds if it is collapsed. Profound cyanosis indicates severe hypoxia and can be seen in tension pneumothorax due to impaired oxygen exchange. Therefore, the presence of distended jugular veins instead of collapsed veins further emphasizes that collapsed jugular veins is not a typical indicator of tension pneumothorax.