Managing chest tubes: Air leaks and unplanned tube removal
May 11, 2015 · If bubbling disappears when you clamp the tubing, suspect an air leak at the insertion site or from within the chest wall. Assess the insertion site; if you detect a leak, apply petroleum …
Care of a Chest Tube - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
Mar 19, 2025 · Chest tubes evacuate air, fluid, blood, or infectious material from the pleural space, restore pulmonary function, and maintain pleural integrity. They are also used to introduce …
Thoracostomy tubes and catheters: Management and removal
Dec 15, 2025 · Thoracostomy tubes or catheters placed in hospitalized patients require a daily assessment to determine the presence of air leak, provide ongoing adjustment of suction level, and …
What Causes an Air Leak in a Chest Tube? - Biology Insights
An air leak originating outside the patient’s body is a mechanical problem involving the chest tube equipment or its connections. This type of leak is often caused by atmospheric air being pulled into …
Understanding Chest Tube Air Leaks: 6 Essentials - MITx Authenticate
Sep 18, 2025 · Explore the causes and management of chest tube air leaks, a critical aspect of post-operative care. Discover the latest techniques and best practices to minimize risks and ensure …
Air Leaks in Chest Tubes: Causes, Symptoms, & Expert Management …
Sep 21, 2025 · Sometimes, patients experience air leaks in chest tube systems, which can cause concern. These leaks often manifest as bubbles in the water seal chamber of the drainage system. …
Chest Tube Troubleshooting: Essential Tips
Jul 24, 2024 · Learn essential chest tube troubleshooting tips to address common issues and ensure optimal patient care and device functionality.
How To Troubleshoot Air Leaks in Chest Tube Systems
Mar 31, 2017 · Fortunately, many air leaks are not from the patient’s chest, but from a plumbing problem. Here’s how to locate the leak. To quickly localize the problem, take a sizable clamp (no …
How do I diagnose an air leak in a chest tube (thoracostomy tube)?
Sep 25, 2025 · Proper assessment of air leaks in chest tubes is critical for patient management decisions. The most reliable method is direct observation of bubbling in the water seal chamber, with …
POTD: "Leak" out for those chest tubes! - Maimonides Emergency …
Jul 8, 2024 · Today we’re going to talk about what to do when it seems like the chest tube is not functioning properly. (Everything here applies to any type of chest tube placed, not just large bore).