Effect of Nursing Guidelines for Chest Drainage Management on Nurses' Performance

Abstract

rainage of the pleural space by means of a chest tube drainage is the commonest intervention in thoracic trauma, and provides definitive treatment in the majority of cases. While a relatively simple procedure, it carries a significant complication rate, reported as between 2% and 10%. While many of these complications are relatively minor, some require operative intervention and deaths still occur (American Thoracic Society, 2014). Incorrect nursing management of chest tubes drainage may lead to a number of complications which can result in increased morbidity, extended hospitalization and, in some cases, mortality. The patency and integrity of chest drainage systems are, therefore, crucial to the preservation of cardiopulmonary performance and the health and well being of patient (Millikan et al., 2006). The nurse is responsible about many aspects of the management of chest tube drainage. Also the nurses have responsibility for the day to day monitoring and management. Complications are more likely to occur if chest tube is used without appropriate knowledge or skill (Parkin, 2002). Nursing intervention for management of patie