Nursing Care for Central Lines & Chest Tubes
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary position recommended to prevent air embolism during catheter insertion?

  • Sitting up straight
  • Lateral position
  • Supine with legs elevated
  • Trendelenburg position (correct)

Which of the following steps is NOT part of the post-catheter placement process?

  • Obtain chest X-Ray after the procedure
  • Cover with a sterile dressing
  • Change the catheter every day (correct)
  • Flushing ports with saline or sterile water

During the dressing change of a central line, what should be done first?

  • Apply a mask and clean gloves
  • Perform hand hygiene (correct)
  • Remove the old dressing and discard it
  • Inspect the catheter and site

What solution is recommended for cleaning the catheter site during dressing change?

<p>Chlorhexidine (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of measuring the external PICC length during dressing changes?

<p>To check for catheter migration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which technique is especially beneficial for accessing deeper central vessels?

<p>Seldinger technique (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary complication associated with central line insertion?

<p>Vascular injury (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of catheter is specifically used for monitoring heart function and blood flow?

<p>Swan Ganz catheter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential complication of a central line?

<p>Pneumothorax (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technique should be used when managing catheters to prevent infections?

<p>Aseptic techniques (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intra-arterial catheters are primarily used for which purpose?

<p>Invasive blood pressure monitoring (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition could occur as a result of catheter dislocation?

<p>Central line thrombosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following complications is NOT associated with central line insertion?

<p>Deep vein thrombosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a chest tube?

<p>To drain fluid or air from the chest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by air trapped in the pleural space under positive pressure?

<p>Tension pneumothorax (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not an indication for chest tube placement?

<p>Pulmonary embolism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the setup of a chest drain?

<p>Perform hand hygiene (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What procedure is performed to prepare the skin before chest tube insertion?

<p>Clean with antiseptic solution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the common complication associated with both pneumothorax and hemothorax?

<p>Compromised cardiopulmonary function (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of fluid accumulates in the chest cavity during chylothorax?

<p>Lymph (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate incision size for inserting a chest tube?

<p>1 inch (2.5 cm) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where should the tube be inserted for optimal placement?

<p>Fourth or fifth intercostal space (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is unnecessary for the management of chest tubes?

<p>Routine stripping or milking of chest tubes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored at least every two hours for patients post-thoracostomy?

<p>Oxygen saturation levels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key nursing responsibilities regarding the chest tube?

<p>Keep the collection container upright and below the chest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is necessary to manage a chest tube effectively?

<p>Distilled water to fill the drainage bottle (A), Adhesive tape for securing connections (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to regularly assess the chest tube site?

<p>To prevent dislodgement and infection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What position should the patient be assisted into to promote proper drainage?

<p>Sitting position (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of applying suction to the drainage system?

<p>To prevent air from re-entering the pleural space (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What complication can arise from clamping a chest drain without medical order?

<p>Tension pneumothorax (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How high should a chest drain be positioned in relation to the patient's chest?

<p>Below chest level (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber indicate?

<p>Large air leak between the drain and the patient (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Seldinger technique primarily used for?

<p>Central venous catheter placement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an indication for central venous catheterization?

<p>Routine blood pressure monitoring (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to ensure the water seal in the drainage unit is maintained?

<p>Tighten all connections (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which vein is NOT a common access site for placing a central venous catheter?

<p>Basilic vein (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you notice an unexpected cessation of oscillation in the water seal chamber?

<p>Check for blockages or kinks in the tube (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of placing a patient in Trendelenburg position during catheter insertion?

<p>To prevent air embolism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which step should be performed immediately after catheter placement?

<p>Obtain a chest X-Ray (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended procedure after removing the old dressing during a central line change?

<p>Inspect the catheter and surrounding skin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is a key requirement to maintain sterility during the dressing change process for a central line?

<p>Using chlorhexidine for cleaning (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum frequency for changing the dressing and catheter parts for a central line as per protocol?

<p>Every 7 days (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk of clamping a chest drain without a medical order?

<p>Development of a tension pneumothorax (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the water seal in the drainage unit be maintained at?

<p>2 cm (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common access site for central venous catheter placement?

<p>Internal jugular vein (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if an air leak is suspected during chest tube management?

<p>Check connections and secure them (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason for central venous catheterization?

<p>Inadequate peripheral venous access (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What position should the patient avoid to prevent complications with the chest tube?

<p>Lying on the chest tube (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum frequency for monitoring drain output in patients with a chest tube?

<p>Every 8 hours (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which technique is primarily used for placing a central intravenous line?

<p>Seldinger technique (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action is important to prevent pulling on a chest drain?

<p>Anchoring the tubing to the skin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key nursing responsibility during chest tube management?

<p>Monitoring respiratory status (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the collection container of a chest tube?

<p>Keep it upright and below the chest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be assured when securing all connections in chest tube management?

<p>Cable ties to prevent dislodgement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to handle suction in patients with a chest tube?

<p>Apply suction only if ordered (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is routine stripping or milking of chest tubes discouraged?

<p>It may cause tissue entrapment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should suction levels be managed for a patient with a chest tube?

<p>Follow physician's orders for suction application (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by blood collection in the pleural space?

<p>Hemothorax (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason for inserting a chest tube?

<p>To drain fluid or air from the chest (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs indicates a tension pneumothorax?

<p>Tracheal deviation away from the affected side (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial step in the process of preparing for chest tube insertion?

<p>Performing hand hygiene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary management focuses for central catheters?

<p>Preventing catheter infections and thrombosis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is NOT an indication for chest tube placement?

<p>Pulmonary edema (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to clean the skin before inserting a chest tube?

<p>Chlorhexidine solution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which complication is associated with the insertion of a central line?

<p>Pneumothorax (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of catheter is specifically utilized for right heart catheterization?

<p>Swan Ganz catheter (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What complication arises from a tension pneumothorax?

<p>Displaced mediastinal structures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of arterial injury during central line insertion?

<p>Formation of a hematoma (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fluid accumulates in the chest cavity during chylothorax?

<p>Lymph fluid (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When managing a central line, which technique is crucial for preventing infections?

<p>Employing aseptic techniques (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following complications is related to central line use and involves an air leak?

<p>Air embolism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does ultrasound guidance play during central line insertion?

<p>Reduces the risk of vascular complications (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential effect of catheter dislocation?

<p>Air embolism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Pneumothorax

A condition where air collects in the space between the lungs and the chest wall.

Hemothorax

A serious condition where blood accumulates in the space between the lungs and the chest wall.

Chylothorax

A rare condition where lymph fluid collects in the space between the lungs and the chest wall.

Pleural effusion

A buildup of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall.

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What is a chest tube used for?

A chest tube is inserted to drain fluids or air from the chest, helping to re-expand a collapsed lung.

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How is a chest tube inserted?

The chest tube is inserted through a small cut in the skin between ribs and guided to the affected area.

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What is done to prevent infection during chest tube insertion?

The skin where the tube is inserted is cleaned with an antiseptic solution like chlorhexidine to prevent infection.

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What is done to address the pain during chest tube insertion?

A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area where the chest tube is inserted, reducing discomfort.

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Air embolism

A serious complication that can occur during catheter insertion, where air enters the bloodstream.

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Trendelenburg position

A position where the patient lies on their back with their pelvis higher than their shoulders.

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Central line

A type of intravenous catheter that is inserted into a large vein in the chest, neck, or groin.

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Catheter stabilization device

A device that prevents the central line from moving or becoming dislodged.

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Transparent semipermeable dressing

A clear, sterile dressing used to cover central line insertion sites.

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What is Thoracostomy?

A procedure where a thin plastic tube is inserted into the pleural space.

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Where is a chest tube usually inserted?

A chest tube is inserted at the fourth or fifth intercostal space, in the mid-axillary or anterior axillary line.

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How should a chest tube be secured?

The chest tube should be secured to the patient and the drain and tubing should be secured with cable ties to prevent accidental disconnections.

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What should be monitored in a patient with a chest tube?

Monitor the patient's respiratory status, including oxygen saturation levels, at least every 2 hours.

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How should a chest drainage container be positioned?

Keep the drainage container upright and below the chest level to ensure proper drainage.

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Is stripping a chest tube recommended?

Routine stripping or milking of chest tubes is not recommended and may cause harm.

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What should be assessed at the chest tube site?

Assess the chest tube site regularly to prevent dislodgement and infection.

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What should be ensured regarding the chest tube?

Ensure that the chest tube is not kinked, pulled, or compressed, as this can impede drainage.

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What is a chest drain?

A medical device that removes air and fluid from the chest cavity, often used after surgery or injury.

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What is a tension pneumothorax?

A condition where air builds up in the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse.

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What is a central line?

A medical device inserted into a large vein near the heart, used for administering fluids, medications, and blood products.

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Where are central lines typically placed?

The preferred sites for inserting a central line include the internal jugular, common femoral, and subclavian veins.

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How are central lines typically inserted?

The Seldinger technique is a common method for inserting central lines, involving using a guidewire to pass a catheter into the vein.

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When should a chest drain be clamped?

A chest drain should never be clamped unless ordered by a medical professional, as this can lead to a tension pneumothorax.

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Who should order suction for a chest drain?

If suction is required for a chest drain, it must be ordered by a medical professional.

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What is the proper water seal level in a chest drain?

The water seal chamber in a chest drain should be maintained at 2cm of water at all times.

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Central line insertion

The technique of inserting a thin, flexible tube into a central vein to deliver medications, fluids, or draw blood.

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Central Venous Catheter

A thin tube inserted into a vein, usually a large vein in the neck or chest, for access to the bloodstream.

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Peripheral IV

When a central venous catheter is not in place or if a line is needed to deliver medications slowly over hours.

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Ultrasound-Guided Central Line Insertion

Using ultrasound to guide the insertion of a central line.

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Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI)

Infection in the bloodstream associated with a central venous catheter.

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Implanted Port

A long-term solution for central line access with implanted port under the skin and a catheter connected to the port.

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Catheters used in dialysis

Catheters specially designed for dialysis procedures.

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What is a pneumothorax?

A collection of air outside the lung but within the pleural cavity.

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What is a hemothorax?

A serious condition where blood collects in the pleural space.

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What is a chylothorax?

A rare but serious condition where lymph fluid from the digestive system accumulates in the chest cavity.

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What is a pleural effusion?

A buildup of fluid between the layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity.

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What is a chest tube?

A procedure where a thin plastic tube is inserted into the pleural space, often used to drain fluid or air.

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Describe a tension pneumothorax's effect on cardiovascular function?

A serious condition that occurs when air is trapped in the pleural space under positive pressure, compromising cardiovascular function.

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Chest tube site monitoring

The chest tube insertion site should be regularly monitored to ensure the tube remains in place and to prevent infections. Signs of infection include redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage.

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Chest tube management

When a patient has a chest tube, it's important to avoid compressing or pulling on the tube as this can obstruct drainage and lead to complications.

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Clamping a Chest Tube

If a patient needs to be moved from the bed, the chest tube should be clamped to prevent air from entering the chest and causing a pneumothorax.

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Patient monitoring with chest tubes

Regularly assess the patient's vital signs and respiratory status, including oxygen saturation levels. Continuous monitoring is preferable in critical cases.

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Drainage system positioning

The drainage system should be kept below the chest level to ensure proper drainage of fluid and air. This helps maintain negative pressure.

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Stripping or milking chest tubes?

Stripping or milking of chest tubes is not a recommended practice as it can cause tissue injury and air embolism.

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Drainage Container Position

The drainage container should be kept upright to prevent fluid from entering the water seal chamber and contaminating the system.

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What is a transparent semipermeable dressing?

A type of dressing specifically designed for central lines, providing a clear and sterile covering for the insertion site. Enables easy monitoring of the insertion site for signs of infection.

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What is a catheter stabilization device?

A device used to prevent the central line from moving or being dislodged, which is important for maintaining proper access and minimizing complications.

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What is ultrasound-guided central line insertion?

Inserting a central line using ultrasound imaging to guide the catheter placement, reducing the risk of complications.

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What is a central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI)?

Infection in the bloodstream associated with a central venous catheter.

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What is an implanted port?

A long-term solution for central line access where a port is implanted under the skin and connected to a catheter.

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How are central lines inserted?

The Seldinger technique is often used to insert central lines, involving the use of a guidewire to navigate the catheter into the vein.

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What are the complications of central line insertion?

Complications of venous central line insertion include arterial injury, venous injury, bleeding, and hematoma formation. Ultrasound guidance can significantly minimize the risk of these complications.

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What are catheters used in dialysis?

Catheters specifically designed for dialysis procedures.

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How are central catheters managed?

The management of central catheters focuses on preventing infections, blood clots, and mechanical problems. Aseptic techniques are essential when handling or manipulating the catheters.

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What should be ensured regarding chest tube connections?

Ensure all connections between chest tubes and drainage units are tight and secure. This helps prevent leaks and complications.

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Study Notes

Nursing Care for Patients with Central Lines & Chest Tubes

  • A chest tube is a plastic tube used to drain fluid or air from the chest.
  • Pneumothorax is a collection of air outside the lung but within the pleural cavity.
  • Tension pneumothorax is a severe condition where air is trapped in the pleural space under pressure, displacing mediastinal structures and compromising cardiopulmonary function.
  • Hemothorax is a condition where blood collects in the pleural space.
  • Chylothorax is a rare, serious condition where lymph (chyle) accumulates in the chest cavity, originating from the digestive system. Lymph contains white blood cells and proteins.
  • Pleural effusion is the buildup of fluid between the tissues lining the lungs and chest cavity.

Indications for Chest Tube Placement

  • Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
  • Penetrating chest trauma
  • Severe blunt chest trauma
  • Hemothorax
  • Chylothorax
  • Symptomatic pleural effusion
  • Postoperative use in thoracic surgery

Chest Drain Set Up

  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Prepare equipment and drain as per manufacturer instructions.
  • Open drain packing in an aseptic manner.
  • Insert the chest tube through a 1-inch (2.5 cm) skin incision between ribs to the correct spot.
  • Clean the skin with antiseptic.
  • Administer a local anesthetic to numb the area.
  • Make a small incision and gently open a path for the drain.
  • Insert the tube at the fourth (or fifth) intercostal space. Position the tube in the mid-axillary or anterior axillary line.

Nursing Care for Patients with Chest Tubes

  • Apply suction to drain if ordered.
  • Secure drain and tubing and the patient.
  • Secure all connections with cable ties.
  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • The evidence suggests that routine stripping or milking of chest tubes is unnecessary and may harm by tissue entrapment.
  • Monitor the drainage system.
  • Check for air leaks, continuous bubbling, and ensure the water seal is maintained at 2 cm.
  • Monitor respiratory status.
  • Assess pain and provide pain relief.
  • Provide overall supportive care.
  • Make sure the patient does not lie on the chest tube or that it is pulled.
  • Keep the drainage container upright and below the chest level.
  • Assist the patient to a sitting position.
  • Continuously monitor the drainage system.
  • Monitor the patient's vital signs and medical apparatus output continuously.
  • Ensure the drainage system is secured to the patient.
  • Monitor the drainage output every 8 hours.
  • Do not clamp the chest drain unless ordered by medical staff.
  • Never lift the drainage system above chest level.
  • Tubing should be anchored to the patient to prevent pulling.
  • Suctions should be ordered by medical staff.
  • Air leaks might show as intermittent bubbling during exhalation or coughing.
  • Continuous bubbling indicates a large air leak.
  • Oscillation (rise and fall with respiration) is normal. Unexpected cessation may indicate blockage.

Equipment

  • Chest drainage bottles (see below)
  • Adequate length (1.5-2 m) of sterile, transparent, plastic tubing (e.g., vinyl or Silastic)
  • Appropriate sterile connectors
  • Adhesive tape
  • Angled clamps (2) for clamping the tube
  • Distilled water to fill the drainage bottle
  • Thoracostomy (Minimally invasive procedure where a thin plastic tube is inserted into the pleural space)

Chest Drain Management

  • Place the chest tube in the correct spot confirmed by an X-ray.
  • Secure to a drainage device.
  • Assess the chest tube site to prevent dislodgement and infection.
  • Manage effective suction and drainage.
  • Provide pain relief.
  • Monitor respiratory status.
  • Provide overall supportive care.
  • Mark time and fluid level on the drainage chamber.
  • Raise drainage system to chest level upon checking patency. Clamp tube when moving patient.

Nursing Care for Patients with Central Lines

  • A central line is a long IV that goes to a vein near or inside the heart.
  • It is used to deliver medicine, fluids, blood or nutrition.
  • The three main insertion sites are internal jugular, common femoral, and subclavian veins.
  • Indications for central venous catheterization include inadequate peripheral venous access for things like chemotherapy or antibiotics, central venous pressure monitoring, hyperosmolar or sclerosing substance infusions (like blood transfusions or IV alimentation), and hemodialysis.
  • The patient can undergo various medical tests.
  • The Seldinger technique is a common central line insertion method.
  • Complications of venous central lines include arterial or venous injury, bleeding, and hematoma formation. Ultrasound guidance can help reduce these risks.
  • Common types of central venous catheters include long venous catheters and implanted ports.
  • Different central venous catheters can include swan ganz catheters.
  • Various potential complications following insertion include CLABSI, collapsed lung, delayed pneumothorax, artery puncture, nerve/vein injury, blood clots, air bubbles, irregular heartbeats, catheter dislocation, subcutaneous hematomas or haemthorax.

Post Catheter Placement

  • Ports flushed with saline or sterile water.
  • Secure catheter with sutures.
  • Cover with sterile dressings.
  • Obtain chest x-ray post-procedure
  • Follow protocol for changing dressings and catheter parts (every 7 days).

Dressing of Central Line

  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Apply sterile gloves, mask and clean gloves.
  • Instruct the client to turn their head away from the site or to wear a mask.
  • Remove the old dressing and discard.
  • Remove stabilization devices to avoid dislodging the catheter.
  • Inspect the catheter, site, and surrounding skin.
  • Compare measures of external PICC length to the baseline readings.
  • Clean the site and catheter tubing with chlorhexidine and let it dry. Apply new catheter dressing.
  • Use sterile film dressing, over the insertion site.
  • Remove and discard gloves.
  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Date, time, initial, and attach labels to the dressing.

Nursing Care for Patients with Arterial Lines

  • Arterial catheters are used for blood pressure monitoring and sampling.
  • Important to follow aseptic technique when handling central catheters to avoid infection.
  • Place the patient in Trendelenburg position to prevent air embolism.

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Description

This quiz covers essential nursing care information for patients with chest tubes and central lines, including conditions like pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pleural effusion. It explores indications for chest tube placement and the management of these critical care situations. Test your knowledge and enhance your nursing skills!

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