What are indications for a chest tube?
These conditions require drainage of air or fluid from the pleural space.
Continuous, vigorous bubbling in the water seal chamber — what does this mean?
➡️ Air leak in the system (NOT normal)
Continuous bubbling indicates a breach in the system that needs to be addressed.
Nursing actions for continuous bubbling in water seal chamber?
These actions help to locate and resolve the source of the leak.
Emergency equipment at bedside for chest tube patient?
Having these supplies ready can help manage emergencies effectively.
Why is milking/stripping chest tubes contraindicated?
➡️ Creates excessive negative pressure
➡️ Can cause tissue trauma & lung damage
These actions can lead to complications and should be avoided.
If chest tube disconnects from drainage system, what is the priority action?
➡️ Place end of tube in sterile water to re-establish water seal
This action prevents air from re-entering the pleural space.
Signs lung has re-expanded after pneumothorax?
These indicators suggest successful lung re-expansion.
Chest tube comes out — priority action?
➡️ Apply sterile occlusive dressing taped on 3 sides
This helps to prevent air from entering the pleural space.
Difference between water seal and suction?
Understanding the difference is crucial for proper management.
Describe the chambers of a chest drainage system.
Each chamber has a specific function in managing pleural drainage.
Emergency supplies at bedside for trach patient?
These supplies are essential for managing potential emergencies.
Signs of infection or breakdown at stoma?
Monitoring for these signs is crucial for early intervention.
Why two providers for tie change?
➡️ Prevent accidental decannulation
➡️ One stabilizes trach, one changes ties
This practice enhances patient safety during the procedure.
Priority assessment before suctioning?
➡️ Oxygen saturation & respiratory status
Assessing these parameters ensures patient safety during the procedure.
Signs patient needs suctioning?
Recognizing these signs helps in timely intervention.
Purpose of hyperoxygenation before suctioning?
➡️ Prevent hypoxia during procedure
This practice ensures adequate oxygenation while suctioning.
Technique during catheter withdrawal?
➡️ Apply suction while rotating catheter
➡️ Use intermittent suction
This technique maximizes effectiveness while minimizing trauma.
Max duration of one suction pass?
➡️ 10–15 seconds
Limiting suction time helps prevent hypoxia.
How long to wait between passes?
➡️ 1–2 minutes
This allows for recovery of the patient between suction attempts.
Why clear catheter between passes?
➡️ Prevent obstruction
➡️ Maintain effectiveness
This practice ensures the catheter remains functional.
Should oral care be provided after suctioning?
➡️ YES — reduces infection risk
Oral care is an important part of post-suctioning care.
If patient gags or vomits during suction?
➡️ Stop suctioning immediately
This is crucial to prevent aspiration and further complications.
Signs suctioning was effective?
These signs indicate successful removal of secretions.
Define drainage types.
Understanding drainage types is important for assessing wound healing.