Do you need to give the patient antibiotics before placing a chest tube?

  • There is considerable debate about the use of prophylactic antibiotics following chest drain insertion
  • BTS guidance suggests:
    • Prophylactic antibiotics should be given in the case of insertion for trauma
    • There is no evidence for there use in other circumstances
  • Generally when used a single dose of antibiotics with good gram-positive coverage is used

BTS Guidelines (2010)

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