In cases where a chest seal is needed, how many sides should be left open to allow air escape?

In situations where a chest seal is applied, leaving three sides open is essential for the management of a sucking chest wound. This technique facilitates the escape of air from the pleural space during respiration, which helps to equalize pressure within the chest cavity. When pressure is allowed to escape, it prevents the development of tension pneumothorax—a life-threatening condition where air accumulates in the pleural space and compresses the lungs and heart.

By keeping three sides of the seal open, the injured person can breathe, and air can exit from the wound when they exhale, while still allowing the seal to prevent outside air from entering, which would otherwise exacerbate the problem. This balance is critical for maintaining an adequate airway and lung function until further medical assistance can be provided.