Mr. Pelletier has chest tubes after surgery. Which statement should the practical nurse convey about chest tubes?

Mr. Pelletier has chest tubes after surgery. Which statement should the practical nurse convey about chest tubes?

• A. You have chest tubes to remove abnormal accumulations of fluid from inside your lungs.
• B. You need to turn in bed frequently to promote drainage from the pleural space and improve lung expansion.
• C. Your chest tubes will be clamped every time you get out of bed to prevent a leak from developing in the drainage system.
• D. The chest tube drainage system should remain at the level of the chest at all times.

Answer: (C)

Chest tubes are part of a closed drainage system that removes air or fluid from the pleural space to help the lung re-expand. They should not be clamped routinely. Clamping a chest tube can trap air or fluid in the pleural space, and if there’s an ongoing air leak, clamping can cause a dangerous buildup that may lead to a tension pneumothorax. Movement and ambulation are managed with the system kept intact and below chest level, without kinks or dependent loops, and with the dressing secure. Clamping is only done if specifically ordered by a clinician, for example to assess an air leak or just before removal. If there are changes in drainage or the patient develops new symptoms like increased shortness of breath, notify the nurse promptly.

Chest tubes are part of a closed drainage system that removes air or fluid from the pleural space to help the lung re-expand. They should not be clamped routinely. Clamping a chest tube can trap air or fluid in the pleural space, and if there’s an ongoing air leak, clamping can cause a dangerous buildup that may lead to a tension pneumothorax. Movement and ambulation are managed with the system kept intact and below chest level, without kinks or dependent loops, and with the dressing secure. Clamping is only done if specifically ordered by a clinician, for example to assess an air leak or just before removal. If there are changes in drainage or the patient develops new symptoms like increased shortness of breath, notify the nurse promptly.