How to Decompress a Tension Pneumothorax
A tension pneumothrax is a fancy word for a collapsed lung. This injury often is the result of a violent impact or a lung puncture. The injury is painful and can be life-threatening. You can decompress the victim before help arrives, but you must be careful. If you are not a medical professional, never attempt decompression, as incorrectly administering the treatment can injure or kill the victim.
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Instructions
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Call the emergency number for your area immediately to report the accident. Look for signs of tension pneumothrax. The victim will be gasping for air and only the non-injured side will be rising and falling. The victim's sking will be grayish-blue, sweaty and cold, and he'll present an erratic pulse rate.
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Cut or remove the victim's shirt so that the chest is completely exposed.
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Find the small space between the second and third rib. Start at the middle of the clavicle (breast bone) and count the ribs until you find the spot.
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Use a sharp object, such as a hypodermic needle or writing pen, to penetrate the space between the second and third rib. Push the object hard enough to break through the skin. You will hear an immediate rush of air and the victim should breathe easier.
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Use your hand or a cloth to cover the hole when the victim inhales and to uncover the hole when they exhale.
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Tell the first responders and the paramedics exactly what you have done to assist the accident victim.
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