Which sign may indicate a tension pneumothorax?

• A. Tracheal deviation
• B. Cough with sputum
• C. Headache
• D. Abdominal cramping

Answer: (A)

A tension pneumothorax creates a pressure buildup that pushes the mediastinum away from the injured side, causing the trachea to deviate from the midline. This tracheal deviation is a key sign because it reflects that the heart and great vessels are being squeezed by the shifting mediastinal structures, a dangerous emergency in need of rapid treatment. Among the options, tracheal deviation is the only sign that aligns with the severe mediastinal shift seen in this condition. The other signs—for example, cough with sputum, headache, or abdominal cramping—do not specifically indicate a tension pneumothorax and are more associated with other conditions.