Thoracic drainage
Thoracic drainage is a medical procedure performed in a sterile environment to clear airway secretions of a patient. This also triggers the cough reflex. This applies to intubated patients as well as not intubated patients, with thoracic weakened muscles or severe pain. A catheter, a suction source, and a vacuum collection canister are required. The vacuum source should be able to provide the 400 to 800 mbar depression. Depression recommended for adult patient is between 150 to 200 mbar, 120 to 150 mbar for a child and 80 to 120 mbar for a newborn.