Chest Tube Placement in Children: What to Expect at Home

A chest tube is placed through the chest wall between two ribs. A chest tube may be used to drain away fluid, blood, or air from the chest. Your child may have some pain in the chest from the cut (incision) where the tube was put in. For most people, the pain goes away about 2 weeks after the tube is removed.

Your child will have a bandage taped over the wound where the tube was removed. The doctor will remove the bandage and examine the wound in about 2 days. It will take about 3 to 4 weeks for your child's incision to heal completely. It may leave a small scar that will fade with time.

• Have your child rest when they feel tired. Getting enough sleep will help your child recover.
• Encourage your child to walk each day. Your child can start by walking a little more than the day before. Bit by bit, help your child increase the amount they walk.
• Your child should not ride a bike, play running games, or take part in gym class until the doctor says it is okay.
• How soon your child can return to a normal routine depends on what health problems your child has. Talk with your doctor about how long it will take your child to recover.
• Your child may shower after the bandage is removed. Pat the cut (incision) dry. Do not let your child take a bath for 2 weeks after the chest tube is out, or until your doctor tells you it is okay.
• Help your child practice deep breathing exercises as directed by your doctor. Coughing exercises also can help drain fluid out of the chest.

• Your child can eat a normal diet. If your child's stomach is upset, start with small amounts of food.
• Have your child drink plenty of fluids (unless the doctor says not to).

• Your doctor will tell you if and when your child can restart any medicines. The doctor will also give you instructions about your child taking any new medicines.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Store your child's prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Give antibiotics as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.

• Keep the incision dry as it heals. Your child will have a bandage over the incision to help it heal and to protect it. The doctor will tell you how to take care of this.

• Keep your child away from smoke and the aerosol mist from vaping. Do not smoke or vape around your child or in your house, and avoid being around others who are smoking or vaping.