FINGER: A Novel Approach to Teaching Simple Thoracostomy

Finger Thoracostomy for Tension Pneumothorax

“…Although definitive management of a pneumothorax is accomplished with tube thoracostomy, this procedure is a more advanced requiring further education and specialized equipment, and carries a higher risk for infection (Merelman et al, 2022). Finger thoracostomy, also referred to as "simple thoracostomy," represents a more invasive approach than the traditional needle decompression but is not as involved as tube thoracostomy.…”

“…Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal interval management strategy to buy time, it has a low success rate (Merelman et al, 2022;Osterman et al, 2022;Thachulthara-George, 2021).…”

“…In essence, the difference between finger and tube thoracostomy is the placement of a tube. Compared to needle decompression, finger thoracostomy appears to have a higher success rate (Merelman et al, 2022). The procedure for performing a finger thoracostomy is described below.…”

“…It is important to perform this procedure correctly to minimize complications and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. To perform finger thoracostomy, the mnemonic “FINGER” can help recall the essential steps for insertion (Merelman et al, 2022): If the patient's condition allows, prepare the patient to ensure that the patient is in a supine position with the affected side of the chest exposed. F —Find the landmarks. Identify the correct intercostal space by down to the fourth or fifth intercostal space between the anterior and midaxillary line.…”

“…It is important to perform this procedure correctly to minimize complications and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. To perform finger thoracostomy, the mnemonic "FINGER" can help recall the essential steps for insertion (Merelman et al, 2022):…”