A nurse is assessing a client who has a pneumothorax with a chest tube in place. For which of the following findings should the nurse notify the provider?
Crepitus in the area above and surrounding the insertion site
Bubbling of the water in the water seal chamber with exhalation
Eyelets are not visible
Movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because crepitus in the area above and surrounding the insertion site is not a serious finding that requires notification of the provider. Crepitus is a crackling sensation that occurs when air leaks into the subcutaneous tissue. It is usually harmless and resolves on its own.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because bubbling of the water in the water seal chamber with exhalation is a normal finding that indicates that air is being removed from the pleural space. Bubbling should stop when the pneumothorax is resolved.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because eyelets are not visible is not a serious finding that requires notification of the provider. Eyelets are small holes at the end of the chest tube that allow air and fluid to drain from the pleural space. They are usually covered by a dressing and may not be visible.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side is a serious finding that indicates a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and causes pressure on the mediastinum. The nurse should notify the provider immediately and prepare for needle decompression or chest tube insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because crepitus in the area above and surrounding the insertion site is not a serious finding that requires notification of the provider. Crepitus is a crackling sensation that occurs when air leaks into the subcutaneous tissue. It is usually harmless and resolves on its own.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because bubbling of the water in the water seal chamber with exhalation is a normal finding that indicates that air is being removed from the pleural space. Bubbling should stop when the pneumothorax is resolved.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because eyelets are not visible is not a serious finding that requires notification of the provider. Eyelets are small holes at the end of the chest tube that allow air and fluid to drain from the pleural space. They are usually covered by a dressing and may not be visible.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side is a serious finding that indicates a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and causes pressure on the mediastinum. The nurse should notify the provider immediately and prepare for needle decompression or chest tube insertion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Equal amount of fluid drainage in each collection chamber is not a sign of proper chest tube function. The amount of fluid drainage depends on the type and extent of the client's injury or surgery, and may vary from one chamber to another.
Choice B Reason: Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber is a sign of proper chest tube function. It indicates that the chest tube is patent and that there is no air leak in the system. The fluid level should rise and fall with the client's respiratory cycle.
Choice C Reason: Continuous bubbling within the water seal chamber is not a sign of proper chest tube function. It indicates that there is an air leak in the system, either from the client's pleural space or from a loose connection. The nurse should locate and correct the source of the leak.
Choice D Reason: Absence of fluid in the drainage tubing is not a sign of proper chest tube function. It may indicate that the chest tube is obstructed, kinked, or clamped, or that the suction is not working properly. The nurse should assess and troubleshoot the chest tube system.
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