Table of Contents
When dressing a penetrating chest wound the dressing is taped on 3 sides Why?
Early treatment of a sucking chest wound included placing an air-occlusive dressing over the site and taping it on three sides. It was thought that this dressing prevented additional air from entering the pleural cavity during inhalation and allowed trapped air to escape from the untaped edge during exhalation.
Should you cover a penetrating chest wound?
The wound should be left open to fresh air if possible, to allow air to escape to prevent tension pneumothorax. Therefore, the first aider should not cover the wound with a dressing.
Why do you tape 3 sides of chest tube?
The result should be a device that allows air to leave the pleural space without allowing for backflow of air with inspiration. Classically, an occlusive dressing is applied and adhered to the chest on three sides with the dependent portion open to allow for blood and air to escape the wound.
Why is it necessary to close a puncture wound in the chest?
A puncture injury can allow air to enter the chest through the wound. Air in the chest cavity does not allow the lungs to function normally. Puncture wounds cause varying degrees of internal and external bleeding. A puncture wound to the chest is a life-threatening injury.
How do you dress a chest wound?
Sucking chest wounds require an imme- diate occlusive dressing. Over the years there have been many suggested field expedient dressings such as aluminum foil, duct tape and cellophane and Vaseline gauze.
What are signs of a sucking chest wound?
Signs of an SCW include:
- an opening in the chest, about the size of a coin.
- hissing or sucking sounds when the person inhales and exhales.
- heavy bleeding from the wound.
- bright red or pinkish, foaming blood around the wound.
- coughing up blood.
How do you deal with a sucking chest wound?
You may be directed to do the following:
- Sterilize your hands with soap and water.
- Put on gloves or other hand protection.
- Remove any loose clothing or objects covering the wound.
- Keep a hand over the wound while preparing a dressing.
- Find a chest seal or sterile, medical-grade plastic, or tape to seal the wound.
Why should you not clamp a chest tube?
As a rule, avoid clamping a chest tube. Clamping prevents the escape of air or fluid, increasing the risk of tension pneumothorax.
Why is Vaseline gauze used with chest tube?
OPEN suture removal kit. PREPARE petroleum gauze occlusive dressing. This is not a sterile procedure although aseptic technique is necessary to prevent infection; petroleum gauze decreases potential of introducing air into pleural space. 8.
When is it too late to cut wounds?
Your risk of infection increases the longer the wound remains open. Most wounds that require closure should be stitched, stapled, or closed with skin adhesives (also called liquid stitches) within 6 to 8 hours after the injury. Some wounds that require treatment can be closed as long as 24 hours after the injury.