The Heimlich valve was developed in the 1960s for those who suffer from persistent air in the membranes around the lungs. This small one-way valve collapses in on itself, allowing air to escape the chest as positive pressure in the chest from exhalation causes the tube to expand. Proper care of your Heimlich valve can help to prevent infections and further health complications.
Change the dressing around the tube daily per the directions your doctor gave you. This helps to keep the area clean. Use fresh tape and sterile gauze after cleaning the area with warm soapy water. Use a soap that is mild and fragrance free. Pat the area gently dry before putting on the new dressing. Change the dressing daily and wash the area at least every other day unless you have persistent drainage.
Use caution to avoid accidentally clamping the tube or obstructing the end of it so that air cannot get out. If the tube comes out, reattach it immediately and call your doctor.
Cover the area with a piece of plastic wrap while in the shower to protect it from getting wet. Poke a hole in the plastic that is large enough to allow air to escape, but not so large that water can get in. Try to keep the tube away from water as much as possible. Avoid any activity that exposes the site to water for extended periods, such as swimming or soaking in a hot tub.
Check the area where the tube is for redness and increased warmth, swelling or bleeding. High fever, pain that seems excessive and won’t go away with prescribed medication and shortness of breath are all reasons to call your doctor immediately.
Clean up occasional leakage with a piece of sterile gauze. If the leakage is excessive or puslike, call your doctor immediately.