Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

What is a potential complication of using a manually triggered oxygen-powered device for ventilation?

1. Gastric distention

2. Pneumothorax

3. Inability to feel lung compliance

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Using a manually triggered oxygen-powered device for ventilation can indeed lead to several potential complications, and recognizing all of them is crucial for effective patient care. Gastric distention occurs when air is inadvertently delivered into the stomach instead of the lungs. This can happen due to improper ventilation techniques or excessive pressure from the device, leading to the accumulation of air in the stomach, which can compromise the patient's ability to breathe and may also cause discomfort or aspiration. Pneumothorax, which is the accumulation of air in the pleural space, can also result from the high pressures generated by the device. If the lungs are overdistended or if the ventilation is not carefully regulated, this can cause lung tissue to rupture, allowing air to escape into the pleural cavity. Inability to feel lung compliance refers to the challenge of assessing how easily the lungs fill with air when using such a device. Manual ventilation often prevents the clinician from effectively monitoring the resistance and compliance of the lungs, which can impact ventilation effectiveness. Understanding these complications underscores the importance of careful monitoring and proper technique when using oxygen-powered ventilation devices.