Which management step is indicated for a spontaneous pneumothorax?

In the context of a spontaneous pneumothorax, the most appropriate management step is to insert a chest drain. A spontaneous pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space without any obvious cause. This can lead to lung collapse, and the key step in management is to allow the air to escape and to re-expand the lung effectively.

Inserting a chest drain, or pleural catheter, helps to remove the air from the pleural cavity, thereby relieving pressure on the lung and promoting re-expansion. This intervention is particularly vital in cases where the pneumothorax is large or accompanied by significant respiratory distress.

Other management options do not directly address the immediate issue of air accumulation in the pleural space. Antihistamines are not relevant since they are used mainly for allergic reactions and not for pneumothorax management. Prescribing antibiotics is typically not indicated unless there is a concern for infection, which is not a standard complication of a simple spontaneous pneumothorax. Similarly, performing abdominal surgery is unnecessary as spontaneous pneumothorax relates specifically to the thoracic cavity and lung health rather than abdominal conditions.

In summary, the insertion of a chest drain is essential for managing spontaneous pneumothorax effectively, enabling