Question

After placement of a chest tube for a traumatic pneumothorax, subcutaneous emphysema is observed. After checking the drainage and chest tube site, what else should be done?

1) Perform a chest X-ray to evaluate the position of the chest tube
2) Administer antibiotics to prevent infection
3) Apply a dressing to the chest tube site
4) Increase the suction pressure on the chest tube

Answer 1

A chest X-ray should be conducted to evaluate the chest tube placement in response to observed subcutaneous emphysema post-insertion, which is crucial for ensuring proper lung re-inflation following a traumatic pneumothorax.

Step-by-step explanation:

After placement of a chest tube for a traumatic pneumothorax, if subcutaneous emphysema is observed, it is crucial to assess the situation thoroughly, which includes checking the drainage and the chest tube site. Subsequently, a chest X-ray should be performed to evaluate the position of the chest tube and to ensure it is placed correctly for the re-establishment of negative pressure within the thoracic cavity as well as the re-inflation of the lungs. Additional measures such as monitoring the patient for signs of infection and ensuring proper wound care with an appropriate dressing to the chest tube site can be part of ongoing care, but the immediate step after noting subcutaneous emphysema would be to confirm the chest tube placement and function via radiographic imaging.