(4) Attach hemostats (Kelly Clamps) to the patient's hospital gown during
transportation or ambulation for emergency use.
m. As indicated, provide emergency care to the patient if the water- seal unit
becomes broken or emptied.
(1) Clamp the chest tube unless there has been a large air leak; chest tube
with a large air leak should be left open, since clamping may cause a rapid
pneumothorax.
(2)
(3)
Remove clamps, if applied.
(4)
Notify the professional nurse/physician, as indicated.
(5)
Observe the patient for respiratory distress.
n. As indicated, provide emergency care to the patient if the chest tube becomes
(1)
Clamp the chest tube.
(2) Cleanse the end of the tubing with an antiseptic solution and reconnect
or cut off the contaminated tips of the chest tube and tubing and insert a sterile
connecting piece.
(3)
Securely tape the connection.
(4)
Notify the professional nurse/physician, as indicated.
(5)
Observe the patient for respiratory distress.
o. As indicated, provide emergency care to the patient if the water- seal unit is
tipped over.
(1)
Return unit to upright position.
(2) Instruct the patient to deep breathe and cough to force air out of the
pleural space.
(3)
Notify the professional nurse.
(4)
Assess the patient for respiratory distress.
p. As indicated; provide emergency care to the patient whose chest tube has
accidentally been pulled out of the chest wall.
MD0917
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