A simple technique for securing tubes.

The brief task of inserting a tube, such as a central venous catheter or a chest tube, is usually followed by the longer task of ensuring that the tube will not be inadvertently pulled out. Various methods for securing tubes have been described, and yet these tubes continue to be pulled out with frustrating predictability. The author describes a technique for securing tubes which is simple, effective, requires no special equipment or assistance, and which is applicable to any flexible tube or catheter inserted at a site suitable for placement of an anchoring suture. After the anchoring suture is secured to the skin, an easily mastered knot is performed which, because it will not slip when tightened, allows an indentation to be made in the tube. Once this indentation is further secured with a square knot, it will not allow the tube to slip through it.