PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a chest tube inserted into the pleural space used for?

1. Drainage of blood only

2. Drainage of fluid and air

3. Ventilation assistance

4. Oxygen delivery

The correct answer is: Drainage of fluid and air

The insertion of a chest tube into the pleural space is primarily utilized for the drainage of both fluid and air that may accumulate in the pleural cavity. This procedure is critical in managing conditions such as pleural effusion, pneumothorax, or hemothorax, where fluid or air intervenes between the lung and the chest wall, impeding normal respiratory function. By draining these accumulations, the chest tube facilitates re-expansion of the lung and restores proper pleural pressures, allowing for adequate lung function and oxygen exchange. The ability to address both fluid and air distinguishes this intervention as essential for a range of thoracic issues and is fundamental to managing respiratory distress that arises from these conditions. While drainage of blood is one specific function, the broader capability to manage both fluid and air is crucial, making the correct answer encompass a larger scope of intervention within thoracic surgery. The other options do not utilize a chest tube for these purposes; ventilation assistance and oxygen delivery are accomplished through different modalities in respiratory care.