Introduction of a Nurse Led Clinic for Patients Discharged Home with a Chest Drain Jenny Mitchell, Advanced Nurse Practitioner

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Introduction of a Nurse Led Clinic for Patients
Discharged Home with a Chest DrainJenny
Mitchell, Advanced Nurse Practitioner Thoracic
SurgeryCardiothoracic Surgery, John Radcliffe
Hospital
A group of patients undergoing thoracic surgical
procedures were identified as fit for discharge
home apart from continuing to require intercostal
drainage. The Advanced Nurse practitioner for
thoracic surgery has introduced a nurse led
clinic to provide follow up for these patients
until the drains are removed, facilitating early
discharge.
Patient Pathway
Intercostal Drains Patients have either a Rocket
Ambulatory Chest Drain bag or a Atrium Express
Mini 500 canister fitted prior to discharge.
These are both dry seal drains with a strap to
allows the patient to wear the drain across their
body. They can be inverted and are safe for use
outside of hospital. Patient Education The
purpose and function of the drain is discussed
with the patient and their carers prior to
discharge. They are given written information
about the drain, how to care for it and who to
contact if they have concerns. The GP and
community nursing team are contacted to provide
wound care and support to the patient and their
carers.
Conclusion This new service aims to enhance the
pathway of this group of thoracic surgery
patients by facilitating early discharge and
improving patient support and communication with
the aim of improving patient satisfaction
References Malik M and Black E (2009) Fast-track
video-assisted bullectomy and pleurectomy for
pneumothorax initial experience and description
of technique. European Journal of Cardiothoracic
Surgery. 36 906-9. Reiger K, Wroblewski H,
Brookes J, Hammond Z and Kesler K (2007)
Postoperative Outpatient Chest Tube Management
Initial Experience With a New Portable System.
Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 84 630-2.