How should signs of infection at the chest-tube site be managed?

• A. Ignore signs and continue care.
• B. Report to clinician and maintain sterile dressing.
• C. Remove the chest tube immediately.
• D. Stop antibiotic therapy if prescribed.

Answer: (B)

Infection around a chest-tube site must be addressed promptly to prevent the infection from spreading into the chest or bloodstream. The best action is to report the signs to the clinician and maintain a sterile dressing. Prompt reporting allows the clinician to assess the wound, decide if cultures or imaging are needed, and adjust treatment, such as antibiotics, if appropriate. Keeping the dressing sterile helps create a barrier to additional bacteria and protects the tract from contamination.

Ignoring signs can let the infection worsen and potentially lead to serious complications. Removing the chest tube immediately without orders could cause life-threatening problems like a pneumothorax or bleeding. Stopping antibiotics if they’re prescribed could allow the infection to progress. By reporting and maintaining a clean, sterile dressing, you support proper evaluation and targeted treatment while protecting the chest-tube site.