Introduction: Chest trauma and chest wounds are severe clinical conditions. The care of chest tube drainage (CTD) systems and implementation of respiratory physiotherapy remain challenging and require specialized management. This study aimed to evaluate the care outcomes of CTD and respiratory training in these patients.
Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 78 patients with chest trauma and chest wounds undergoing CTD. Variables collected included age, sex, injury characteristics, chest tube management, complications, and hospital stay. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software.
Results: From January 2023 to September 2025, the mean age was 49.5 ± 18.8 years (patients ≥65 years accounted for 17.6%). Regarding CTD care, 100% of systems maintained suction at -20 cmH₂O, closed, one-way, continuous, and sterile. Supportive respiratory care rates were: 92.3% balloon blowing, 79.5% position change, 69.2% chest percussion, and 60.3% coughing exercises. Complications included 1.3% incorrect tube placement and 2.6% drainage failure. The average length of hospital stay was 6.5 days for uncomplicated CTD, 14 days for tube reinsertion, 9.6 days for first thoracotomy, and 12 days for second thoracotomy. Among recorded adverse events, care-related complications accounted for 66.66%, while technical issues accounted for 33.33%.
Conclusion & Recommendations: CTD care and respiratory physiotherapy require high specialized expertise. The study demonstrated favorable treatment and care outcomes. To optimize efficacy, it is recommended that each patient use a separate two-bottle drainage system with standard pressure suction; additionally, healthcare staff should receive regular training on CTD monitoring and care.