Which of the following is a characteristic of a tension pneumothorax?

A tension pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space and is trapped, leading to increased pressure that collapses the lung on the affected side and can push mediastinal structures away from the injury. One of the most significant characteristics of a tension pneumothorax is severe respiratory distress. This is due to the compromised ability of the affected lung to expand and function properly, resulting in inadequate oxygenation and ventilation.

Patients typically exhibit difficulty breathing, rapid respiratory rate, and signs of hypoxia as their lungs cannot exchange gases effectively. This respiratory distress is often accompanied by additional clinical signs, such as tachycardia and altered mental status, as the body is not receiving sufficient oxygen.

Understanding severe respiratory distress as a characteristic of tension pneumothorax is critical for effective recognition and immediate intervention, as delaying treatment can lead to life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure and cardiovascular collapse.