Which of the following complications can result from delays in treating a tension pneumothorax?

Delays in treating a tension pneumothorax can lead to severe complications due to the progressive deterioration of respiratory and circulatory function. Among these, cardiac arrest is considered one of the most critical outcomes.

In a tension pneumothorax, air becomes trapped in the pleural space and creates increasing pressure that collapses the lung on the affected side and mediates a shift of the mediastinal structures. This pressure can compress the great vessels—including the heart—leading to decreased venous return and severely impaired cardiac output. As the condition worsens, the heart may not be able to maintain adequate circulation, which ultimately can result in cardiac arrest if prompt intervention is not applied.

While other complications, such as hypoxia, permanent lung damage, and even hemorrhagic shock, may also arise from treatment delays, the immediate and life-threatening nature of cardiac arrest underscores the urgency of addressing a tension pneumothorax promptly. Hence, recognizing the potential for cardiac arrest is critical in emergency management, emphasizing the necessity for immediate decompression and intervention measures.