Which complication does a three-sided occlusive dressing help prevent for open chest wounds?

• A. Bleeding
• B. Infection
• C. Tension pneumothorax
• D. Hypothermia

Answer: (C)

Open chest wounds carry the risk that air can be sucked into the chest with each breath, building pressure that can collapse the lung and shift the heart and great vessels—a life-threatening situation known as tension pneumothorax. A three-sided occlusive dressing addresses this by sealing the wound on three sides while leaving one side open. That open edge lets air escape during exhalation, so air can vent out rather than be trapped and compressed inside the chest. In effect, it creates a one-way venting mechanism that prevents pressure from accumulating and reduces the chance of tension pneumothorax developing.

Bleeding is managed primarily by direct pressure and hemorrhage control, so this dressing isn’t aimed at stopping external bleeding. Infection risk is related to contamination and sterile technique, not the venting function of the dressing. Hypothermia is addressed by keeping the patient warm and protected, not by preventing air buildup in the chest. The key benefit of the three-sided approach is specifically preventing the dangerous pressure build-up that leads to tension pneumothorax.