Pneumothorax and Chest Tube Management

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key terms and concepts from the lecture regarding pneumothorax, hemothorax, chest injuries, and management with chest tubes.

Hemothorax

A collection of blood in the pleural cavity.

Pneumothorax

The presence of air in the pleural space causing lung collapse.

Sharp chest pain

A common symptom associated with hemothorax and pneumothorax.

Dyspnea

Difficulty breathing, often a symptom of pneumothorax.

Central cyanosis

Bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen.

Absent breath sounds

Lack of normal breath sounds on auscultation of the lungs.

Simple Pneumothorax

Partial lung collapse without apparent injury.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax

Lung collapse occurring without trauma.

Traumatic Pneumothorax

Lung collapse resulting from injury.

Blunt trauma

A non-penetrating injury, such as from a motor vehicle accident.

Penetrating trauma

Injury caused by an object piercing the body.

Tension Pneumothorax

A life-threatening condition where trapped air collapses the lung.

Tension Hemothorax

A condition where trapped blood shifts internal organs.

Chest tube

A tube placed in the pleural space to remove air or fluid.

Water seal system

A system that restores negative pressure to the pleural space.

Chest drainage system

Composed of a chest tube and a drainage collection system.

Suction control chamber

Part of the drainage system that regulates suction.

Tidaling

Fluctuations in fluid level indicating breathing.

Serosanguinous drainage

Fluid that appears pink due to mixed serum and blood.

Spiral taping technique

A method used to secure connections and prevent air leaks.

High-Fowler’s position

Patient position recommended for fluid drainage via chest tube.

Semi-Fowler’s position

Preferred position for patients with pneumothorax.

Monitor water levels

To ensure proper functioning of the drainage system.

Subcutaneous emphysema

Presence of air trapped under the skin, detected through palpation.

Cough and deep breathe

Encouraged to promote lung expansion and clear secretions.

Bright red blood

Should be reported if seen in chest tube drainage after the first hour.

Report over 100ml output

Excessive drainage indicating possible complications.

Patient assessment

Evaluating respiratory status and signs of infection.

Fluid expansion

Goal of the water seal system and chest tube.

Chest injuries

Can lead to conditions like pneumothorax and hemothorax.

Diaphragmatic tears

Injury that may contribute to pneumothorax.

Auscultate breath sounds

Check lung sounds every two hours for abnormalities.

Tipping prevention

Keeping the chest drainage system stable during patient movement.

Comfort positioning

Adjusting the head of the bed for patient comfort.

Invasive procedures

Procedures like thoracentesis that can cause pneumothorax.

Chest tube insertion

Procedure to place a tube in the pleural space.

Accessory muscles usage

Muscles that are used to help with breathing during distress.

Cyanosis during tension pneumothorax

Increased cyanosis severity as condition worsens.

Pleuritic chest pain

Pain that worsens with deep breathing, associated with lung issues.

Respiratory distress signs

Symptoms that indicate difficulty in breathing.

Chest tube monitoring

Ongoing evaluation of tube position and drainage.

Collection chamber

Part of the system that collects drainage from the pleural space.

Pre-existing lung conditions

Issues like emphysema that may precede pneumothorax.

Close monitoring

Required for potential complications related to chest tubes.

Air leak detection

An important aspect of managing chest tube systems.

Clamping chest tubes

Not generally recommended to avoid complications.

Patient positioning goals

To encourage lung expansion and drainage.

Pneumothorax vs hemothorax signs

Both can show similar symptoms but have different causes.

Post-procedure care

Monitoring the patient for signs of complications after tube placement.

Classic signs of tension pneumothorax

Cyanosis, hypotension, and decreased level of consciousness.

Fluctuations during respiration

Indicating effective chest tube functioning.

Peak inspiratory pressure increase

May indicate obstruction in the system.

What are some common nursing interventions for patients with respiratory issues?

Common interventions include monitoring oxygen saturation, administering medications (such as bronchodilators), providing breathing exercises, and ensuring proper positioning for optimal lung expansion.

What nursing interventions are critical for diabetic patients?

Critical interventions include monitoring blood glucose levels, educating patients on insulin administration, teaching dietary management, and assessing for signs of hypo/hyperglycemia.

What are important nursing interventions in managing patients with hypertension?

Important interventions include monitoring blood pressure regularly, educating patients about diet modifications, encouraging regular physical activity, and administering antihypertensive medications as prescribed.