A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has a chest tube set to continuous suction to relieve a pneumothorax. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
Ensure the device is kept below the level of the client's chest.
Clamp the chest tube every 4 hr.
Place the client in a supine position.
Empty the collection chamber every 8 hr.
The Correct Answer is A
Ensuring the device is kept below the level of the client's chest is important to ensure that the drainage system functions properly by allowing the fluid and air to flow downhill. Placing the device below the level of the chest helps facilitate gravity drainage.

Continuous suction is required for proper functioning of the chest tube drainage system. Clamping the chest tube can disrupt the suction and impede the removal of air or fluid from the pleural space. Only in specific circumstances, such as when changing the drainage system or assessing for air leaks, may the healthcare provider request a temporary clamping of the chest tube.
Positioning the client semi-Fowler's, with the head of the bed elevated, can help promote lung expansion and improve oxygenation. The specific positioning may vary depending on the client's condition and the healthcare provider's recommendations.
The nurse should empty the collection chamber as per the facility's protocol, which typically includes monitoring the drainage and emptying it when it reaches a certain level. Regular emptying of the collection chamber helps maintain proper functioning of the chest tube system and allows for accurate measurement of drainage output.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Veracity refers to the principle of truthfulness and honesty in communication. By truthfully communicating about the adverse effects of the prescribed medications, the nurse is demonstrating veracity. This ethical principle emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information to the client to promote informed decision-making and autonomy.
Justice refers to fairness and equitable treatment, ensuring that individuals receive what they are due and that resources are distributed appropriately. While justice is an important ethical concept in healthcare, it is not directly applicable to the nurse's communication about adverse effects.
Autonomy refers to respecting the right of individuals to make their own decisions and choices regarding their healthcare. While truthfully communicating about adverse effects supports autonomy, autonomy itself is not the specific ethical concept being exhibited in this scenario. Beneficence refers to the ethical principle of acting in the best interest of the client and promoting their well-being. While providing accurate information about adverse effects can be seen as a form of beneficence, it does not directly address the nurse's truthful communication in this specific scenario.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Explanation
C. Position the client on their left side
The symptoms of feeling dizzy, racing heart, and becoming pale while lying on their back are consistent with supine hypotensive syndrome or vena cava syndrome. This condition occurs when the pregnant uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and causing a drop-in blood pressure.
Positioning the client on their left side helps alleviate the pressure on the vena cava, allowing for improved blood flow and preventing further symptoms. This position optimizes blood circulation and reduces the risk of complications. The nurse should assist the client in turning onto their left side and ensure they are comfortable.
Providing the client with a glass of orange juice (option A) is not recommended as it may be helpful in cases of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia, but it is not the most appropriate action in this scenario.
Instructing the client to take a brisk walk (option B) is not recommended since physical exertion can further worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of complications.
Checking the client's temperature (option D) is not necessary as the reported symptoms are not indicative of a fever or infection.
Therefore, the most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to position the client on their left side (option C).
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