Chest tubes

Question 1

What is pneumothorax?

Answer 1

Air or gas in the cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, causing collapse of the lung.

Question 2

What is a chest tube?

Answer 2

A chest tube is a hollow, flexible tube in the chest. It acts like a drain.

Question 3

When is a chest tube used?

Answer 3

1. After thoracic surgery
2. for treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax
3. during trauma resulting in pneumothorax
4. to drain fluid or air from the pleural space and/or mediastinum

Question 4

What should the nurse do after chest tube insertion?

Answer 4

Auscultate lung sounds and assess for rate, rhythm, depth

Question 5

What changes should be monitored in a patient with a chest tube?

Answer 5

Monitor pulse ox, ECG for any changes

Question 6

What should be assess on an intubated patient?

Answer 6

Assess CRT, skin color, and status of surgical dressing

Question 7

What should the patient be encouraged to do after intubation?

Answer 7

Encourage pt to TCDB-increases drainage

Question 8

What are two things that are important monitor and assess for patients that are intubated?

Answer 8

1. Monitor color, amount and consistency of drainage.

2. Assess for significant changes in drainage output