What is hemothorax?

• Occurs when pleural space fills with blood. • Usually occurs due to lacerated intercostal or pulmonary vessel in the thorax. • As blood increases, it puts pressure on heart and other vessels in chest cavity S&S (IMP flat neck veins, anxiety, tachypnea, signs of shock, bloody sputum, diminished breath sounds, tachycardia) Tx (General shock care due to blood loss and monitoring heart rhythm, two large bore IV and draw blood samples, airway management (intubation), chest tube if needed (if hemodyamically unstable)