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. Lower oxygen saturations of 93% to 94%

In an older adult client with a pneumothorax, the nurse could expect to observe lower oxygen saturations of 93% to 94%. A pneumothorax involves the accumulation of air in the pleural space, which can compress the lung and impair gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels). Decreased oxygen saturations would be a common finding in this condition.

B. Higher oxygen saturations of 98% to 99%

Higher oxygen saturations would be less likely in a client with a pneumothorax due to impaired gas exchange resulting from lung compression. Oxygen saturations are more likely to be lower in this condition, as indicated in option A.

C. Lower energy expenditure

While a pneumothorax may cause discomfort and dyspnea, which could potentially decrease energy expenditure due to reduced activity levels, it is not a direct physiological effect of the condition. Energy expenditure would depend on various factors, including the severity of symptoms and the individual's overall health status.

D. Increased lung capacity

A pneumothorax typically results in a decrease in lung capacity rather than an increase. The accumulation of air in the pleural space causes partial or complete collapse of the affected lung, reducing its ability to expand and decreasing overall lung capacity. Therefore, increased lung capacity would not be expected in a client with a pneumothorax.

A. Start slowly and increase volume over several sessions.

This is the correct choice. For clients having difficulty using an incentive spirometer, starting slowly and gradually increasing the volume over several sessions is an appropriate approach. It allows the client to become familiar with the device and the technique required for effective use. Starting slowly also reduces the risk of discomfort or respiratory distress, allowing the client to build up their lung capacity gradually and achieve optimal results over time.

B. Do regular deep-breathing exercises instead.

Regular deep-breathing exercises are beneficial for improving lung function and respiratory strength. However, using an incentive spirometer serves a specific purpose in promoting deep breathing and lung expansion to prevent atelectasis (lung collapse) and improve respiratory function. While deep-breathing exercises are helpful, they may not provide the same targeted benefits as using an incentive spirometer, especially for clients who are experiencing difficulty with deep breathing or lung expansion.

C. Use another device because this one might be faulty.

This option assumes that the difficulty with the incentive spirometer is due to a fault in the device itself, which may not necessarily be the case. Before considering another device, it's important to ensure that the client is using the current device correctly and receiving proper instruction. If the client continues to have difficulty despite proper technique and instruction, then further assessment of the device may be warranted.

D. Be much more vigorous in increasing increments.

Being much more vigorous in increasing increments is not recommended, as it could lead to discomfort, respiratory distress, or hyperventilation for the client. Increasing the volume too quickly may overwhelm the client and make it more difficult for them to use the incentive spirometer effectively. Gradual progression allows the client to adjust to the device and build up their lung capacity safely and effectively over time.