What is one potential complication of using a chest tube?

Using a chest tube, which is a common procedure to drain air, fluid, or blood from the pleural space, indeed carries the risk of infection. This complication can arise due to several factors, including the invasive nature of the procedure, the presence of a foreign body (the tube itself), and the potential for bacteria to enter the pleural space. Infection can lead to serious conditions like pleuritis or empyema, where pus collects in the pleural cavity.

In contrast, complications such as anemia, hypertension, and hypothermia are less directly associated with the placement of a chest tube. Anemia may result from blood loss but is not a common or immediate complication of the procedure. Hypertension is typically a result of other underlying health conditions and is not specifically linked to chest tube use. Hypothermia can occur in various medical situations but is not a direct complication of a chest tube insertion. Thus, the risk of infection is a primary concern that healthcare providers must monitor.