Nursing Instructions for the Tru-Close® Thoracic Vent

Tru-Close Thoracic Vent The Tru-Close Thoracic Vent has been designed for the treatment of spontaneous, traumatic or iatrogenic simple pneumothorax.

Managing the Patient The self-sealing, self-contained device should be in direct contact with the skin. No part of the catheter should be visible. An airtight seal must be maintained to prevent subcutaneous emphysema. Do not adjust the position or remove the Thoracic Vent under any circumstances. Avoid direct contact with water as in showering. If skin irritation is observed, notify a physician. Cap the self-sealing port when not in use.

Managing the Patient (cont.) Using a stethoscope, one should be able to hear normal breath sounds on the affected side as the lung is re-expanded. Any absence of breath sounds can indicate a failure of lung re-expansion. Notify a physician. Do not disinfect the Thoracic Vent with alcohol (propanol). Alcohol will degrade the vent. Always clamp the suction tubing set when suction is not being applied. The unit vents air through small slots/openings at the top and the bottom of the vent box just behind the front panel. If you use tape to secure the vent do not cover these venting slots.

Managing the Patient (cont.) The device is not designed for treatment of hemo or hydro pneumothorax. Notify a physician if excessive amounts of blood or other liquid is observed in the vent box. If small amounts of fluid accumulate in the device it can be removed via the drainage port at the bottom of the device using a syringe.

The Function of the Red Signal Diaphragm The “Red Signal Diaphragm” indicates the presence of the pneumothorax. Deflects upward when the pressure in the pleural space is positive (>2mm Hg) Deflects downward when the pressure is negative (<2mm Hg). Normal intrapleural pressure is constantly negative. When the diaphragm stays in the downward position the pneumothorax may be resolved (notify a physician).

External Suction Attachment If attachment to a suction system is desired, remove the suction tubing set from its pouch. Close the clamp on the tubing set before inserting the cannula into the self-sealing port on the front of the Vent Lock the cannula in place by twisting the luer lock. Attach the funnel end to the suction system and then open the clamp. Appropriate evacuating pressures should be used. Do not exceed a 14.7 mm Hg (-20 cm water) vacuum. Always clamp the suction tubing set when suction is not being applied to the Thoracic Vent. If the suction tubing set is no longer required, remove it and immediately seal the self-sealing port with the tethered cap.

Aspiration of Fluid from the Vent The Tru-Close Thoracic Vent is designed to treat simple pneumothorax and not recommended for hemo or hydro pneumothorax. Considering the above, all pneumothoracies do produce small amounts of fluid. The vent is designed to hold small amounts of fluid not in excess of 5cc. Small amounts of fluid that accumulate in the vent box can be aspirated through the needle-less port at the bottom of the vent box using a luer lock syringe.

Conclusion When using the Tru-Close Thoracic Vent always refer to the IFU contained in the product package. For additional information please review the Thoracic Vent in-service video. If you have technical questions relating to the Tru-Close Thoracic Vent please contact UreSil Customer Service at (800) 538-7374. Thank You