NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam 2026 - Free School Nurse Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Anxiety is a common psychological symptom that may be observed in a patient with pneumothorax due to the sudden onset of symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing. The unexpected nature of pneumothorax can lead to feelings of panic and fear, especially as the patient may feel a loss of control over their breathing. This physiological response can trigger the body's fight-or-flight mechanism, leading to heightened anxiety levels.

In cases of pneumothorax, the sensation of air escaping from the pleural space can create a feeling of suffocation or inability to breathe properly, exacerbating feelings of anxiety. This symptom may also be compounded by the patient's concern about their health, the potential for serious consequences, and the need for immediate medical intervention, all of which contribute to an anxious mental state.

Other psychological symptoms like depression, confusion, or euphoria are less commonly associated with pneumothorax. Depression may develop over time due to the illness's impact on daily life but is not typically observed in the immediate context. Confusion is not a direct response to pneumothorax; it may occur in cases of severe hypoxia, which would manifest later in the clinical course. Euphoria is generally not associated with the stress and fear commonly felt