Chest Tubes Flashcards
Which of the following are some conditions that may require a chest tube.
Trauma
Surgery
Diseases - such as pleural effusions from CHF, hepatic disease, or nephrotic syndrome (when both lungs are affected).
Signs and symptoms of a tension pneumothorax?
Sharp chest pain (atmospheric air irritates the parietal pleura)
Dry cough
Diaphoresis
Decreased B/P
Tachycardia
Deviated trachea & mediastinum to the unaffected side
Pneumothorax
it is the collapse of a lung caused by a collection of air in the pleural space.
Pneumothorax Types/Causes:
- Trauma (ex. fractured ribs)
- Spontaneous/primary d/t rupture of small bled on the surface of the lung or invasive procedure (ex CVADs insertion or removal)
Hemothorax
the collapse of the lung caused by the accumulation of blood and fluid in the pleural cavity - usually results from trauma - prevents lung full expansion.
s+s: pain, dyspnea and shock develop if blood loss is severe.
Why a chest tube would be used?
To treat pneumothorax
Post-chest surgery
Trauma - to remove fluid, blood (24-32 Fr) and/or air (12- 20 Fr)
Where would a chest tube be inserted to remove air in the pleural space? (anatomical location)
Air rises > Apical: Anterior 2nd or 3rd intercostal space
Where would a chest tube be inserted to remove fluid and/or blood in the pleural space? (anatomical location)
Low > Posterior or lateral 5th or 6th intercostal
Where is a mediastinal chest tube be located?
Below the sternum and is connected to a drainage system to drain blood or fluid, preventing accumulation around the heart (cardiac tamponade)
Commonly used after open heart Sx.
How many chambers can a Pleur-vac have?
3
1- Single chamber- water seal to draw air out of the pleural space and prevent its re-entry
2- two chamber - Fluid Collection
3 chamber - drainage of fluid and air with controlled suction
