The team are called to trauma bay for a CTAS Level 1 patient. The patient is a 70-year-old male with SOB, in distress and unable to speak in full sentences.  The team is expected to perform an A-E assessment and take a history from the paramedics. The PMH, A-E assessment and physical examination will be consistent with acute COPD exacerbation with a previous diagnosis of CHF.  The team is expected to manage the acute presentation with appropriate interventions and prepare for the potential deterioration of the patient. The patient will deteriorate, and the team are expected to perform rapid sequence intubation and monitor appropriately.  The patient subsequently develops a pneumothorax, and a chest tube will need to be placed.

Goals and Objectives

Educational Goals:

• To provide learners with the opportunity to manage a patient with a severe COPD Exacerbation and CHF

Medical Goals:

1. Recognise signs and consequences of COPD exacerbation.
2. Acute management of COPD exacerbation.
3. Recognise signs and symptoms of pneumothorax post intubation.
4. Acute management of pneumothorax including chest tube insertion.