injuries and poisoning
Introduction to Chest Injuries
Treatment of Chest Injuries
Support of breathing and circulation Treatment of the specific injury Injuries that are immediately life threatening are treated as quickly as possible. The specific treatment depends on the injury. For all injuries, doctors take measures to support breathing and circulation if necessary. People may be given oxygen (for example, by nasal prongs, by face mask, or through a breathing tube) and intravenous fluids or sometimes blood transfusions. People with severe chest injuries are admitted to the hospital. People may be given pain relievers (analgesics) to lessen pain. For some injuries, a tube must be inserted into the chest (thoracostomy, or Chest Tube Insertion ) to drain blood (in 