Chest Drains

Why, when, and how chest drains are placed will be outlined, in this 60 minute eCPD tutorial, along with the specific nursing considerations we need to address to ensure patient safety and comfort once a drain is in place. The ‘pleural space’ exists between the lungs and the body wall, within the chest cavity. If fluid or air builds up in the pleural space, it needs to be removed, and a chest drain is often placed.