After assessing a patient with suspected pneumothorax, what should a medic do next?

When dealing with a patient suspected of having a pneumothorax, immediate assessment is crucial. If the assessment indicates a tension pneumothorax or significant respiratory distress, preparing for needle decompression is the necessary next step. This is because a pneumothorax can rapidly lead to compromised respiratory function and cardiovascular collapse if not treated promptly.

Needle decompression involves inserting a large-bore needle into the pleural space to relieve pressure. This is critical when the patient's condition worsens, showing signs of respiratory distress, diminished breath sounds on the affected side, hypotension, or jugular venous distension. The timeliness of this intervention can be life-saving, making it paramount for the medic to be ready to perform this procedure when indicated.

Other responses, such as administering oxygen or monitoring vital signs, may be important in the overall management of a respiratory patient but should not take precedence over immediate intervention if needle decompression is required. Starting CPR is reserved for situations where there is no pulse or breathing, which is not a standard initial response for a patient with a suspected pneumothorax unless there are dire changes. Thus, the focus should remain on addressing the pneumothorax directly to stabilize the patient.