Saunders Respiratory Practice

What should be done to ensure the security of chest tube connections?

1. Use unsealed tape

2. Leave connections loose for easy access

3. Secure with airtight tape

4. Allow for some fluid movement

The correct answer is: Secure with airtight tape

Securing chest tube connections with airtight tape is essential to prevent air and fluid leaks that can compromise the patient's respiratory status and lead to complications. Properly securing these connections ensures that the pleural space remains negative, which is vital for effective lung expansion and promotes proper drainage of fluid or air from the thoracic cavity. Airtight tape creates a barrier that minimizes the risk of contamination andmaintains the integrity of the system, ultimately enhancing patient safety and improving clinical outcomes. In contrast, using unsealed tape would not provide an adequate seal, potentially allowing for leaks. Leaving connections loose undermines the purpose of the chest tube, as it can lead to ineffective drainage and respiratory distress, while allowing too much fluid movement can introduce variability in pressure and drainage capacity, again risking patient complications. Overall, the best practice emphasizes the importance of a secure and airtight connection in maintaining the functionality and safety of chest tube systems.