Pneumothorax and chest drainage
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
The accumulation of air in the pleural space causing lung collapse, requiring a chest tube system to evacuate air and restore negative pressure.
Pneumothorax and chest drainage in plain English
Maintenance of water-seal integrity is vital; a sudden loss of tidaling or continuous bubbling are red flags for system malfunction or air leaks. A common mistake is clamping a chest tube without a clinical indication or provider order, which can rapidly induce a life-threatening tension pneumothorax.
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