What is the main purpose of a chest drainage system?

The main purpose of a chest drainage system is to remove excess air, fluid, and blood from the pleural space. This is essential in managing conditions such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, or hemothorax, where the presence of air or fluid in the pleural cavity can cause lung collapse or interfere with normal respiratory function. By allowing for the evacuation of these substances, a chest drainage system helps restore normal pressure within the pleural space and facilitates lung re-expansion, thereby improving respiratory function and oxygenation.

The other options do not align with the primary function of a chest drainage system. Administering medications directly into the lungs typically requires a different delivery method, such as nebulizers or inhalers, rather than a drainage system. Although enhancing oxygen therapy is vital in respiratory care, it falls outside the specific mechanical functions of chest drainage systems. Monitoring heart rate is also unrelated, as this is typically conducted using separate monitoring equipment rather than through a chest drainage system.