Vacuum
The presence of vacuum suction should be assessed hourly and documented on the fluid balance chart.
The system consists of a clear plastic reservoir, with a green plastic concertina on top to monitor the presence of vacuum pressure. If vacuum pressure is present in the system the concertina is tightly compressed. When suction is lost the concertina is extended.
Provided the suction is “on” then there is continuous suction which is facilitating drainage despite the unit and tubing being above or below the patient’s chest level.
The higher the negative pressure the greater the vacuum and so it is acceptable for the drain to be above the chest. However, for safety the unit and tubing should be equal to or below the patient’s chest.
Ensure all connections between drainage tube and suction unit are tight and secure.
The black lines on the drain tubing are radiolucent, meaning x-ray can confirm position. Therefore the black lines on the tubing should not be visible outside the patient.