A nurse is checking the suction control chamber of a client's chest tube and notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Expiratory wheeze

Expiratory wheeze is a high-pitched, musical sound heard primarily during expiration. It occurs when air passes through narrowed airways due to bronchoconstriction, inflammation, and increased mucus production, which are characteristic features of an acute asthma exacerbation. Expiratory wheezes are commonly heard upon auscultation of the chest in individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations.

B. Pleural friction rub

Pleural friction rub is a dry, crackling or grating sound heard during both inspiration and expiration. It typically occurs when the inflamed pleural surfaces rub against each other during breathing. Pleural friction rub is associated with conditions such as pleurisy (inflammation of the pleura) or pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the pleural space), rather than asthma exacerbations.

C. Fine rales

Fine rales, also known as fine crackles, are brief, high-pitched, discontinuous sounds heard primarily during inspiration. They are typically associated with conditions involving the small airways and alveoli, such as pulmonary fibrosis or congestive heart failure. Fine rales are not commonly heard in asthma exacerbations.

D. Rhonchi

Rhonchi are low-pitched, snoring or rattling sounds heard primarily during expiration. They result from the passage of air through airways obstructed by thick mucus or secretions. While rhonchi may be heard in individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations, they are less characteristic than expiratory wheezes, which are more commonly associated with asthma exacerbations. Rhonchi are often associated with conditions such as chronic bronchitis or pneumonia.

A. Inspiratory stridor

Inspiratory stridor is a high-pitched, musical sound heard during inspiration that indicates partial obstruction of the upper airway. It is a characteristic sign of airway obstruction and requires immediate attention.

B. Nausea

Nausea is not a common manifestation of airway obstruction. It may be associated with other conditions such as gastrointestinal issues or medication side effects but is not directly related to airway obstruction.

C. Retractions

Retractions refer to visible sinking of the skin between the ribs and above the clavicles during inspiration, which indicates increased effort to breathe. Retractions can occur in response to airway obstruction, as the body attempts to overcome the resistance to breathing.

D. Muscle tremors

Muscle tremors are not specific manifestations of airway obstruction. Tremors may occur due to various reasons such as anxiety, electrolyte imbalances, or neurological conditions but are not typically associated with airway obstruction.

E. Cyanosis

Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes resulting from inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It can occur with airway obstruction as oxygen exchange is compromised. Cyanosis is a late sign of respiratory distress and requires immediate intervention.