Which symptom is included in the signs and symptoms of tension pneumothorax?

• A. Anxiety
• B. Rash
• C. Abdominal pain
• D. Nausea

Answer: (A)

Anxiety is the best choice because tension pneumothorax causes severe breathing difficulty and falling oxygen levels, which trigger a sympathetic, alarmed response. The trapped air increases intrathoracic pressure, collapses the lung, and impairs venous return, quickly leading to distress and restlessness. This anxious, agitated state is a common early sign of the condition. Rash, abdominal pain, and nausea aren’t characteristic features of this specific chest emergency and don’t reflect the primary respiratory and circulatory compromise occurring in tension pneumothorax.