Question

At what anatomic position should an 18-gauge IV catheter be placed to relieve a tension pneumothorax?

Answer 1

Answer: This procedure usually is done with an 18-gauge intravenous catheter inserted just over the second rib on the anterior aspect of the chest in the midclavicular line.

The second intercostal space in the mid-clavicular line in the affected hemithorax. However, insertion of the needle virtually anywhere in the correct hemothorax will decompress a tension pneumothorax