What is the McSwain Dart?
The McSwain Dart is a twelve cm. long, 16 french, polyvinyl catheter over a sharp metal stilet. It is intended to pro- vide a rapid method of treating tension pneumothorax in either the pre or in- hospital setting.
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What is a tension pneumothorax?
A tension pneumothorax is a severe condition that results when air is trapped in the pleural space under positive pressure, displacing mediastinal structures, and compromising cardiopulmonary function.
Who invented needle decompression?
Invented by the living EMS legend Dr. Norman McSwain, it was decades ahead of its time. The Dart was both longer and larger diameter than an IV needle, but could still be placed percutaneously. It was 5.9” long and 0.21” diameter or 16 French.
Do you need a one way valve for needle decompression?
In a patient with a tension pneumothorax who has undergone needle decompression and who is receiving positive pressure ventilation, a one-way valve is not needed, as the air flow is from internal to external.
Can an EMT perform a needle decompression?
If an EMS provider suspects a tension pneumothorax, they should perform immediate needle decompression in the second intercostal space to restore cardiac output. The definitive treatment for pneumothorax is chest tube placement in the emergency department.
Can paramedics do needle decompression?
A recent European study showed that paramedic-performed prehospital needle decompression of the chest was carried out in 0.7% (17/2261) of adult trauma patients admitted to a level 1 trauma centre over 6 years (Kaserer et al, 2017).
Can nurses do needle decompression?
The Practice and Education (P & E) Committee has carefully considered the issue of registered nurses performing needle decompression for the treatment of tension pneumothorax. Pursuant to 405.01, appropriate training and competency is a requirement for performing nurse care.
What is the main cause of pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax can be caused by a blunt or penetrating chest injury, certain medical procedures, or damage from underlying lung disease. Or it may occur for no obvious reason. Symptoms usually include sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. On some occasions, a collapsed lung can be a life-threatening event.
Can a civilian do a needle decompression?
Needle thoracostomy, also known as needle decompression (ND), is a procedure for the immediate management of tension pneumothorax. Though it is performed by CLS on the battlefield, ND in U.S. civilian settings is an advanced procedure restricted to use by prehospital and hospital-based health professionals.
