18/04/2025
A chest tube is a lifesaver that helps drain air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space surrounding your lungs. Also known as chest tube thoracostomy, this emergency procedure can be crucial after surgeries or in trauma situations.
During insertion, a hollow plastic tube is carefully placed between your ribs into the pleural space. This tube may connect to a machine to facilitate drainage and will remain in place until the fluid, blood, or air is cleared from your chest.
🩺 You might need a chest tube if you experience:
- A collapsed lung
- Lung infections
- Bleeding around your lung, especially post-trauma (like a car accident)
- Fluid buildup from conditions such as cancer or pneumonia
- Breathing difficulties due to fluid or air accumulation, especially after lung, heart, or esophageal surgery
Nursing students, this is essential knowledge for your NCLEX prep!** Save this info and share it with your fellow students!
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