NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

When a child has an open chest wound that is allowing air to enter the thoracic cavity, they may be experiencing a pneumothorax. This condition occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall, which can happen when there's a breach in the chest wall, such as a stab wound or a gunshot wound. The presence of air in this space can disrupt normal breathing as the lung on the affected side may collapse partially or completely due to the inability to expand properly.

In this critical situation, it is essential to recognize the symptoms of pneumothorax, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a rapid increase in respiratory rate. The open chest wound behaves like a one-way valve that lets air in but not out, further complicating lung function. Prompt medical intervention is necessary to treat the injury and prevent serious complications. Understanding this condition is vital for a school nurse when assessing and providing emergency care for trauma cases involving chest wounds.