A nurse is caring for a client who has a three-chamber closed chest tube system. Which of the following actions should the nurse take after noticing a rise in the water seal chamber with client inspiration?
Immediately notify the provider.
Clamp the chest tube near the water seal.
Continue to monitor the client.
Reposition the client toward the left side.
The Correct Answer is C
Continuing to monitor the client is the appropriate action for the nurse to take, as a rise in the water seal chamber with client inspiration is a normal and expected finding. The water seal chamber acts as a one-way valve that allows air to exit from the pleural space and prevents air from entering. The water level in this chamber fluctuates with breathing, rising with inspiration and falling with expiration. This indicates that the chest tube system is functioning properly and that there is no air leak.
a) Immediately notifying the provider is not necessary, as a rise in the water seal chamber with client inspiration is not an abnormal or urgent finding. The nurse should only notify the provider if there are signs of complications, such as persistent bubbling in the water seal chamber, which indicates an air leak, or no fluctuation in the water level, which indicates an obstruction or resolution of pneumothorax.
b) Clamping the chest tube near the water seal is not advisable, as it can cause increased pressure in the pleural space and lead to tension pneumothorax. Clamping the chest tube should only be done for a brief period of time and under specific circumstances, such as changing the drainage system, assessing for an air leak, or preparing for chest tube removal.
d) Repositioning the client toward the left side is not helpful, as it does not affect the water level in the water seal chamber. The nurse should position the client according to their comfort and condition, and avoid placing them flat or on their affected side, as this can impair drainage and ventilation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Oral candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by Candida albicans. It is a common adverse effect of inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, which can suppress the normal flora of the oral cavity and create a favorable environment for fungal growth. It manifests as white patches or plaques on the tongue, palate, or cheeks that can be scraped off.
a) Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, diuretics, or kidney disease.
b) Hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose level, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by
insulin overdose, oral hypoglycemic agents, alcohol intake, or prolonged fasting.
c) Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by stress, obesity, smoking, salt intake, or kidney disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Suctioning is the priority observation in the client's care, as it prevents airway obstruction and respiratory distress caused by blood, mucus, or secretions. The client has a permanent tracheostomy and cannot cough or clear the airway effectively. The nurse should assess the need for suctioning frequently and perform it as needed, using sterile technique and maintaining oxygenation.
a) Patency of the intravenous line is important, but not the priority observation in the client's care. The intravenous line provides fluids, electrolytes, and medications to the client, but it does not affect the airway patency or oxygenation.
c) Integrity of the dressing is important, but not the priority observation in the client's care. The dressing protects the surgical site from infection and bleeding, but it does not affect the airway patency or oxygenation.
d) Level of pain is important, but not the priority observation in the client's care. The pain can be managed with analgesics and nonpharmacological measures, but it does not affect the airway patency or oxygenation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today