Lung compression or chest trauma can cause several complications including pneumothorax, hemothorax, and flail chest. Pneumothorax involves air in the pleural space collapsing part or all of the lung. Hemothorax is a collection of blood in the pleural cavity. Flail chest occurs when multiple ribs are broken, detaching a segment of the chest wall. Nursing management focuses on stabilizing the patient, draining fluid or air from the chest, controlling pain, and supporting ventilation as needed.

1. LUNG COMPRESSION Oxygen Deprivation