A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a new chest tube that is attached to closed chest water-seal drainage and suction. The nurse should report which of the following findings to the charge nurse?
Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber
Patient respiratory status is stable and denies pain to chest tube site!
Tidalling, fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber
Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber
The Correct Answer is A
A. Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates a possible air leak in the system, which needs to be assessed and potentially reported to the charge nurse for further evaluation.
B. Patient respiratory status is stable and denies pain to chest tube site: This is a normal finding and does not require reporting.
C. Tidalling, fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber: This is a normal finding, indicating that the chest tube is functioning properly and that the lungs are expanding.
D. Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber: This may be acceptable, especially with respiratory movements, as it could indicate that the patient is exhaling, but continuous bubbling is concerning.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "It delivers the highest concentration of oxygen possible." This is inaccurate; other methods (like non-rebreather masks) deliver higher concentrations.
B. "It delivers a specific concentration of oxygen constantly." While it does provide a specific concentration, it is not as constant as other devices because it can vary based on the client's breathing patterns.
C. "It delivers the low concentration of oxygen you need." A nasal cannula typically delivers a low concentration of oxygen (approximately 24-44% oxygen depending on the flow rate), which is appropriate for clients who need supplemental oxygen but do not require a high concentration.
D. "It allows you to remove it for a while when it gets uncomfortable." This is misleading; while the client can remove it temporarily, it is essential to maintain oxygen therapy as prescribed for adequate oxygenation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Maintain the drainage container below the level of the client's chest. Keeping the drainage container below the level of the client's chest allows gravity to assist in draining fluid or air from the pleural space and prevents backflow into the chest.
B. Add tap water as needed to the suction control chamber: This is incorrect; sterile water should be used, not tap water, to prevent contamination.
C. Clamp the chest tubes if it becomes disconnected: This is not recommended as clamping can create a tension pneumothorax. Instead, the nurse should use a sterile gauze to cover the site and notify the provider.
D. Empty the collection container every shift: The collection container should be emptied as needed, not on a set schedule, to ensure proper function and accurate measurement of drainage.