In medical post-operative care, chest tube drainage exceeding 100 mL per hour generally warrants reporting to a healthcare provider, although guidelines may vary by institution and patient condition.
The question you are asking is related to post-operative care following chest tube insertion, which is a medical procedure often required to manage conditions such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion. When considering the amount of chest tube drainage that should be reported to a healthcare provider (HCP), it is essential to follow established guidelines and hospital protocols. A significant change in drainage can indicate various issues, from normal post-operative healing to potential complications.
Generally, a sudden increase in chest tube drainage that is greater than 100 mL per hour should be reported to an HCP. However, this can vary based on the specific circumstances of the patient and the preferences of the HCP overseeing their care. Always consult the relevant clinical guidelines or the instructions of the overseeing physician for the most accurate information.
In conclusion, while the threshold can vary, typically an increase in output to >100 mL in one hour is a point at which a healthcare professional should be notified to assess the situation further.