The pie charts in Figures 2-6 show the same data expressed as a proportion of the 53 articles and book chapters which gave any advice on nursing practices. They show just how little advice is given. In some cases the percentages refer to very small numbers. The value or origin of the advice is not commented upon. The different types of advice shown in Figure 2 are scattered with no apparent trend over time.
Few authors justify their advice.
Sometimes it is clear that the bottle should be changed, for example, if it is damaged or full. However, many patients being treated for pneumothorax will have a drain in place for some days. As few research studies ever give definitive results, these results would need to be reproduced in another trial. Where occlusive dressings are advocated, one article suggested that it should be left in place for three days, and another stipulated that it should not be changed unless it is soiled, or there are signs of infection. Petroleum gauze is mentioned twice as part of the airtight dressing.