Thoracic trauma

Thoracic trauma causes one of every four trauma deaths in this country, and many of these deaths could have been prevented with prompt diagnosis and treatment. Injuries to the thorax range from a superficial wound such as contusions and abrasions to life-threatening tension pneumothorax. Being aware of the mechanism of injury and pathophysiology of the chest cavity will alert the nurse to suspected injuries. A brief description of common injuries is discussed in this article.