Figure 1-3. Open pneumothorax.
b. Treatment for Open Pneumothorax. To treat for open pneumothorax, you
should:
(1) Seal the wound immediately with your hand or any available material.
The goal is to seal the wound; therefore, use a nonporous material, if possible, such as
aluminum foil, or a rolled up 8 x 10 dressing held in place. Be sure the dressing is large
enough to cover the wound; otherwise, the dressing might be sucked into the wound.
(2) As soon as possible, apply a petroleum gauze dressing on the wound,
and cover the dressing with a bulky dressing taped in place.
(3)
Administer oxygen with positive pressure, as needed.
(4) Place the casualty in the semi-Fowler's position or any other position
that is comfortable. If he is unconscious, lay him on his injured side.
(5)
Observe the casualty for signs and symptoms of shock.
(6)
Evacuate the casualty immediately.
(7)
Give the casualty an IV with serum albumin.
MD0569
1-12