1. Which of the following is a common mechanism of

thoracic injury in blunt trauma?

A) Deceleration

B) Compression

C) Penetration

D) Shear

Answer: B) Compression. Compression occurs when the

chest wall is crushed between an external force and the

spine, resulting in rib fractures, lung contusions, or cardiac

injuries. Deceleration, penetration, and shear are more

likely to cause injuries to the aorta, great vessels, or

mediastinal structures.

2. What is the most sensitive and specific imaging modality

for diagnosing a pneumothorax?

A) Chest X-ray

B) Ultrasound

C) CT scan

D) MRI

Answer: B) Ultrasound. Ultrasound has a sensitivity and

specificity of nearly 100% for detecting pneumothorax,

especially in the supine position. Chest X-ray can miss up

to 50% of pneumothoraces in trauma patients, and CT scan

and MRI are not readily available or indicated in most

cases.

3. What is the initial management of a tension

pneumothorax in a trauma patient?