Chest tubes

Chest tubes ( 15 Questions)

A nurse is caring for a patient with a chest tube and drainage system. The patient reports continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?


Correct Answer: D

Choice A rationale:

Stating that continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber is a normal finding and does not require any intervention is incorrect. Continuous bubbling indicates an air leak, and it requires prompt evaluation and intervention.

Choice B rationale:

Clamping the tubing to see if the bubbling stops is incorrect. Clamping the tubing would only be done to assess if the air leak is from the patient or the system, but it does not address the underlying issue.

Choice C rationale:

Applying an occlusive dressing to seal the wound site is incorrect. While dressing changes may be necessary to maintain a sterile environment, it will not resolve the air leak causing continuous bubbling.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the physician immediately about the air leak is the appropriate nursing action. Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber suggests an air leak, which could compromise the effectiveness of the chest tube and require immediate medical attention.




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