How to Apply a Russell Chest Seal

The Russell Chest Seal® is a vented chest seal designed for the treatment of open chest wounds and penetrating chest trauma. It is one of only two chest seals proven 100% effective in an open chest wound model with active bleeding.

The Russell Chest Seal features:

• 
  a hydrogel-based multi-layer dressing,
  
• 
  a low-profile four-aperture valve system,
  
• 
  and a flexible non-woven backing designed for reliable adhesion in challenging environments.
  

The hydrogel adhesive has been tested in extreme temperatures and remains effective even in the presence of:

• 
  blood,
  
• 
  sweat,
  
• 
  hair,
  
• 
  and sand.
  

Its compact and flexible design allows the Russell Chest Seal to fit easily into:

• 
  IFAKs,
  
• 
  trauma kits,
  
• 
  tactical medical kits,
  
• 
  and emergency preparedness supplies.
  

Step 1 — Expose and Clean the Wound

Expose the chest wound and clean the surrounding area before applying the chest seal.

Proper skin preparation helps improve adhesion and ensures the vented chest seal remains secure during emergency treatment.

Step 2 — Position the Russell Chest Seal

Open the Russell Chest Seal package and preposition the chest seal directly over the center of the wound.

The Russell Chest Seal uses a patented hydrogel base and four large peripheral apertures designed to allow drainage of trapped air and blood from the chest cavity.

Step 3 — Apply the Chest Seal

Remove the adhesive liner and apply the chest seal securely over the wound.

Firmly adhere all edges of the dressing to the skin. It is important to eliminate air bubbles and ensure complete edge adhesion so the vented chest seal can ventilate properly.

The Russell Chest Seal also features a silicone-coated release liner designed to prevent stretching or distortion of the dressing during application.

Russell Chest Seal Uses

The Russell Chest Seal is commonly used for:

• 
  penetrating chest trauma,
  
• 
  sucking chest wounds,
  
• 
  gunshot wounds,
  
• 
  puncture injuries,
  
• 
  tactical medicine,
  
• 
  emergency trauma care,
  
• 
  and emergency preparedness applications.
  

Proper chest seal training and trauma care education are strongly recommended before emergency use.

Important Chest Trauma Reminder

Rapid treatment of open chest wounds is critical during emergency medical situations. Proper chest seal placement can help support breathing and improve patient outcomes while awaiting advanced medical care.