RESUMO
Thoracic trauma is usually accompanied by other body system injury, most frequently head and skeletal injury. Developmental changes throughout childhood make the consequences of such injuries more severe, as children develop respiratory and circulatory compromise quickly. Blunt trauma predominates in pediatric thoracic trauma. Trauma to the thoracic cavity may involve fractures of the ribs or injuries where the ribs remain intact. Trauma involving the pleural space affects ventilation that may evolve into circulatory failure if not addressed promptly. Pulmonary contusion is among the most frequent and most fatal of thoracic injuries. Rupture of the tracheobronchial tree, esophagus, or diaphragm may have both short- and long-term consequences. Trauma to the heart and/or great vessels may be fatal at the scene of the accident, in the emergency department, or in the intensive care unit. Pain management is an essential part of caring for children with thoracic injury. A variety of methods have become available within the past several years that promote better pain relief and shorter recovery periods with less side effects. Nursing care of the child with PCA, epidural analgesia, or intercostal nerve blocks requires specific knowledge and assessment skills. Nonpharmacologic methods of pain relief may be used as an adjunct to pharmacologic methods.