AEMCA Practice Exam

What are the primary signs of an open pneumothorax?

1. Severe headache and confusion

2. Open chest wound and low SpO2

3. High fever and coughing blood

4. Palpitations and dizziness

The correct answer is: Open chest wound and low SpO2

An open pneumothorax, also known as a "sucking chest wound," occurs when there is a breach in the chest wall that allows air to enter the pleural space, leading to compromised lung function. The primary signs of this condition often include an open chest wound, which is a direct indicator that there is a disruption in the integrity of the thoracic cavity. Additionally, a low oxygen saturation level (low SpO2) is a critical sign that reflects impaired gas exchange in the lungs due to the presence of air in the pleural space that prevents the lung from expanding properly. When a large opening in the chest is present, atmospheric air can enter the pleural cavity during inhalation, resulting in difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen levels. Clinicians look for these signs when assessing a patient for a potential open pneumothorax. The other choices, while they might indicate other serious conditions, do not relate directly to the signs of an open pneumothorax. Severe headache and confusion could relate to various neurological conditions or hypoxia, high fever and coughing blood might suggest an infection or respiratory condition, and palpitations and dizziness are often associated with cardiovascular issues rather than a specific respiratory event like an open pneumothorax. Therefore