What is a common sign of a flail chest injury?

A common sign of a flail chest injury is paradoxical movement of the chest wall. This occurs when a segment of the rib cage becomes detached from the rest of the thoracic wall due to multiple adjacent rib fractures. When a person breathes in, the affected segment of the chest wall moves inward instead of outward, and conversely, it moves outward when the person exhales. This abnormal movement can compromise the ability to ventilate effectively, leading to respiratory distress and potentially significant hypoxia if not addressed promptly.

Recognizing this sign is crucial for trauma nurses, as it indicates severe thoracic injury and necessitates immediate intervention, such as providing supplemental oxygen or preparing for possible surgical intervention to stabilize the chest wall. Understanding the mechanics of flail chest helps in prioritizing treatment and anticipating potential complications that can arise from this type of injury.