Today's skill is pleural decompression.
After managing the patients airway as necessary
and identifying the signs of a tension pneumothorax
We will assemble the necessary equipment.
For this skill is a 14 to 16 gauge needle
Iodine or alcohol solution
four by four's
tape
a sharps container
and PPE which for this skill is gloves and eye protection.
After donning PPE
The first step is identity the proper decompression site.
The proper site is the second or third intercostal space
on the midclavicular line
Identify the site
and clean with the proper solution.
Recomfirm the site
insert the catheter vertically over the top of the rib.
Listen for a rush of air
remove the needle
leaving the catheter in place and immediately dispose of the sharps.
Secure the hub
with four by four's and tape.
Reassess the patient's ventilation,
lung sounds, pulse and blood pressure for improvement.