What is the purpose of a chest seal?

The purpose of a chest seal is to prevent air from entering a wound, particularly in cases of penetrating chest injuries such as gunshot or stab wounds. When a chest seal is properly applied over an open chest wound, it helps create a one-way valve that allows air to escape from the pleural space but prevents outside air from entering. This is crucial in managing conditions like a tension pneumothorax, where air in the pleural cavity can compress the lungs and affect breathing.

This function is particularly vital in emergency situations where maintaining airway integrity and lung function is necessary. The application of a chest seal can be a critical intervention to stabilize the patient until they receive further medical treatment. Therefore, it plays a significant role in trauma care, especially for law enforcement and first responders who might be the initial caregivers at the scene of an injury.