Florida State Paramedic Test 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The recommended site for needle decompression in tension pneumothorax is indeed at the second intercostal space at the midclavicular line. This location is preferred because it's easily accessible, and it allows for rapid decompression of the pleural space. However, the option that indicates both the second and third spaces or the fourth and fifth intercostal spaces recognizes the importance of adapting the technique based on individual patient anatomy, especially if the medially located structures or variations in anatomy are present.

Selecting any of these sites can be effective, depending on the patient's body habitus and the circumstances requiring decompression. The second intercostal space at the midclavicular line is most commonly taught, but the option mentioning other intercostal spaces highlights that paramedics should be prepared to use alternate sites if necessary, emphasizing the importance of clinical judgment in emergency situations when addressing tension pneumothorax.