In general, a chest drain can be removed when: The patient’s clinical condition has improved The lung has fully re-expanded on chest imaging There is no air leak (bubbling in the drain) on Valsalva manoeuvre or cough There is minimal fluid drainage: Exact amount...
Length Volume Long enough to keep 80–100 cm below the patient to prevent water being entrained during inspirationNegative pressures of 50–80cm H2O can be generated in some people. At least 50% of the patients maximal inspiratory capacity to help prevent...
Bottle 1 Bottle 2 Bottle 3(Not Always Required) No water prime and acts purely as a collection reservoir for fluidAir from the pleural cavity passes into the second bottle Has an underwater seal with tubing tip 2-3cm below the waterActs as a one way valve as in a...
The underwater seal created by a tube placed 2-3 cm below the surface of the water: Ensures minimum resistance to drainage of air and fluid Acts as a one-way valve preventing re-entry during inspiration The chamber should be 100 cm below the chest During expiration:...
