Publication Date
7-2026
Disclaimer
These guidelines do not establish a standard of care to be followed in every case. It is recognized that each case is different and those individuals involved in providing health care are expected to use their judgment in determining what is in the best interests of the patient based on the circumstances existing at the time. It is impossible to anticipate all possible situations that may exist and to prepare guidelines for each. Accordingly, these guidelines should guide care with the understanding that departures from them may be required at times.
Objective of the Clinical Pathway
To provide care standards for the patient diagnosed with spontaneous pneumothorax. This clinical pathway guides the management of these patients, including timely and appropriate consultation of Surgery and Pulmonology, treatment recommendations, and criteria for admission versus discharge.
Target Users
Physicians (Emergency Department, Urgent Care, Hospital Medicine, Ambulatory, Surgery, Pulmonology, Fellows, Resident Physicians); Nurse Practitioners; Physician Assistants
Clinical Questions Clinical Pathway
In patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax, does the use of oxygen therapy compared to no use of oxygen therapy increase the resolution rate?
Disciplines
Pediatrics
Recommended Citation
Children's Mercy Kansas City, "Pneumothorax" (2026). Clinical Pathways.
https://scholarlyexchange.childrensmercy.org/clinical_pathways/62
Comments
Clinical Pathways promote evidence based, safe, and high-value care for patients by providing clinical recommendations and standard processes. They are developed by multidisciplinary committees of subject matter experts, informed by methodical review of available evidence and consensus among committee members.