Black Front Chest Seal Vented is used to dress penetrating chest wounds. The flat one-way valve releases air trapped in the chest and at the same time blocks air from entering from outside – this reduces the risk of tension pneumothorax. The dressing complies with TCCC guidelines.
The hydrogel-based adhesive ensures a tight, lasting seal to the skin. A special tab makes it easy to peel the dressing off the backing, and the transparent design allows precise placement and monitoring of the wound. The pack also contains gauze for initially wiping blood and dirt from the skin around the wound.
The dressing is round, approx. 17 cm in diameter, and packed in durable, waterproof packaging (approx. 20 × 11 cm). It does not contain latex. It is a class I medical device, non-sterile and single-use. Black Front Chest Seal Vented fits in an IFAK.
Why the Black Front Chest Seal Vented?
The valve lets air that accumulates in the pleural cavity escape, so the risk of tension pneumothorax is lower than with a non-vented dressing. Its flat design does not stick out from under clothing. Black Front Chest Seal Vented practise at our first aid training.
The version without a valve is the Black Front Chest Seal. You will find others in the category chest seals.
A chest wound – what to do?
Seal a penetrating chest wound as quickly as possible. Put on gloves, clean and dry the skin around the wound (with the gauze or sponge from the kit), apply the dressing as the casualty breathes out, centred over the wound, and press down the edges. Check for an exit wound – especially on the back – and seal it too. Watch the breathing: if breathlessness increases and the dressing has no valve, lift its edge briefly to release air. Place a conscious casualty in a semi-sitting position or on the injured side. Call for help on 112 – action taken by a bystander can decide whether the casualty survives. The dressings are single-use.
Read more in the articles Assessing the casualty and First aid and its priorities.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How does the valve work?
It lets air out of the chest and does not let it in from outside.
What size is it?
Round, approx. 17 cm in diameter.
Does it comply with TCCC?
Yes – with TCCC guidelines.
