Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What is a late sign of a tension pneumothorax?

1. Shortness of breath

2. Contralateral tracheal shift

3. Altered mental status

4. Jugular vein distension

The correct answer is: Contralateral tracheal shift

In the context of tension pneumothorax, a late sign is indicated by the shift of the trachea away from the affected side, known as contralateral tracheal shift. This occurs due to the increased pressure in the pleural space of one lung, which pushes the mediastinum and structures within it, including the trachea, toward the opposite side. This is typically seen after other more immediate signs and symptoms have presented, such as respiratory distress or hypotension. Additionally, while altered mental status and jugular vein distension can also occur in the context of a tension pneumothorax, they are considered more general signs of severe respiratory distress or decreased perfusion rather than specific to the later stages of this condition. Shortness of breath is a common and often early-presenting sign associated with tension pneumothorax and does not characterize the later stage manifestations.