Step 3: Checking for blockages and flushing the circuit
Tutorial demonstrations by Artemio Gonzales, Specialist Respiratory Nurse, ABUHB.
In this tutorial, Arte outlines the following steps for checking for blockages and flushing the circuit:
1. Check the drain is swinging or bubbling
Where the chest drain tubes enters the bottle of water, it should either be swinging or bubbling, depending on whether the patient has fluid or air in their pleural space. If the tube is not swinging or bubbling, the chest drain might be blocked and action should be taken.
2. A visual check for blockages
Checking the tube for blockages can start with a visual inspection for clots or other secretions.
3. Flushing the tube
If there is a blockage of the circuit, the tube should be flushed with sterile saline.
Step 3: Checking for blockages and flushing the circuit
Tutorial demonstrations by Artemio Gonzales, Specialist Respiratory Nurse, ABUHB.
In this tutorial, Arte outlines the following steps for checking for blockages and flushing the circuit:
1. Check the drain is swinging or bubbling
Where the chest drain tubes enters the bottle of water, it should either be swinging or bubbling, depending on whether the patient has fluid or air in their pleural space. If the tube is not swinging or bubbling, the chest drain might be blocked and action should be taken.
2. A visual check for blockages
Checking the tube for blockages can start with a visual inspection for clots or other secretions.
3. Flushing the tube
If there is a blockage of the circuit, the tube should be flushed with sterile saline.
