Identify the two pleural membranes and the clinical significance of the pleural space in pneumothorax.

Identify the two pleural membranes and the clinical significance of the pleural space in pneumothorax.

• A. Visceral pleura lines the chest wall; parietal pleura covers the lungs; the pleural space contains air.
• B. Visceral pleura covers the lungs; parietal pleura lines the chest wall; the pleural space contains lubricating fluid; air entering this space can cause lung collapse.
• C. Pleural space contains air; visceral pleura lines the chest wall; parietal pleura covers the lungs; this air improves ventilation.
• D. Parietal pleura lines the lungs; visceral pleura lines the chest wall; the pleural space is a muscular cavity.

Answer: (B)