Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with a pneumothorax?

1. Sudden shortness of breath

2. Sharp stabbing pain

3. Decreased breath sounds on both sides

4. Subcutaneous emphysema

The correct answer is: Decreased breath sounds on both sides

A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, causing the lung to collapse. This condition can result in several characteristic symptoms. Sudden shortness of breath is common as the lung's ability to expand is compromised. Sharp, stabbing pain is also typical and is often localized to the side of the chest affected; this pain can be exacerbated by breathing or movement. Subcutaneous emphysema refers to air pocketing beneath the skin, which can happen in cases of trauma or certain medical procedures that lead to air escape from the respiratory system. This is important to note, as it may indicate a significant injury such as a penetrating trauma. Decreased breath sounds are generally heard on the affected side of a pneumothorax due to the lung's inability to fully expand, not on both sides. Therefore, decreased breath sounds on both sides is not typically associated with a pneumothorax, as the condition usually affects only one lung. This makes it an atypical symptom when evaluating a patient with suspected pneumothorax.