After placement of a chest tube in a patient with a pneumothorax, what is the positioning used?

The appropriate positioning after placement of a chest tube in a patient with a pneumothorax is to have the good side up. This positioning facilitates optimal drainage of air or fluid from the affected side and helps avoid complications, such as further injury to the lung. By keeping the unaffected (good) side elevated, gravity aids in the re-expansion of the lung on the side where the tube is inserted, promoting better ventilation and gas exchange.

Additionally, this position can help reduce the risk of complications associated with the chest tube, such as kinking or displacement, and provides comfort to the patient. It’s also aligned with typical nursing interventions aimed at enhancing respiratory function in patients with pneumothorax.