Flail chest

Signs and symptoms

Pathophysiology

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Definition

Two or more contiguous rib fracture

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Swelling

Tenderness

Bruising and inflammation

Difficulty in breathing

Pain in the chest

Loss of continuity

Pressure within the chest is negative during inspiration

Flail chest occurs due to loss of stability

Causing flail segment to retract

Intrathoracic pressure becomes positive

Nursing care plan

The units should be below patients chest level to facilitate drainage

Tubing should have no kinks

Never lift drain above chest level

Ensure that all drainage unit are tight and secure