Which two tests are essential for diagnosing a pneumothorax?

The combination of a chest X-ray and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is crucial for diagnosing a pneumothorax. A chest X-ray is the primary imaging study used to confirm the presence of air in the pleural space, which is characteristic of a pneumothorax. It provides a visual assessment of the lung fields and chest structure, allowing for easy identification of any abnormal air collections.

Arterial blood gas analysis complements the chest X-ray by providing information regarding the patient’s oxygenation and acid-base status, which can be affected by the presence of a pneumothorax. Changes in the ABG can indicate respiratory distress or failure, helping clinicians assess the severity of the condition and guide treatment decisions.

Other tests listed, such as CT scans and MRIs, are more advanced imaging techniques but are not routinely used for initial diagnosis of pneumothorax. Ultrasound can be helpful in some settings, especially in emergency care, but it is not as definitive as a chest X-ray for this particular diagnosis. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are not relevant for diagnosing pneumothorax, as they assess lung mechanics rather than the presence of air in the pleural space. Barium swallow studies and echocardi