How to Apply a Sentinel Chest Seal

In this training video, we review how to properly apply a Sentinel Chest Seal in three simple steps. Chest seals are used in emergency trauma care to help treat open chest wounds and reduce the risk of tension pneumothorax.

Chest seals are commonly found in:

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

Step 1 — Expose and Prepare the Wound

Expose the chest wound and open the Sentinel Chest Seal package.

Use the enclosed gauze wipe to clean and prepare the skin surrounding the wound. Proper wound preparation helps improve adhesion and ensures the chest seal remains secure during treatment.

Step 2 — Position the Chest Seal

Preposition the Sentinel Chest Seal directly over the center of the chest wound with the arrows pointing toward the ground.

Correct positioning helps the vented chest seal function properly and allows trapped air to escape from the chest cavity.

Step 3 — Apply the Chest Seal

Remove adhesive liner one and apply that side of the chest seal directly over the wound.

Next, remove adhesive liner two and firmly secure all adhesive edges around the wound site.

It is important to ensure all edges are fully adhered with no air bubbles present. Proper adhesion helps the vented chest seal ventilate correctly and maintain an effective seal during emergency treatment.

Sentinel Chest Seal Uses

Chest seals are 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 penetrating chest injuries is critical in emergency medical situations. Proper chest seal placement can help improve patient outcomes while awaiting advanced medical care.