The provider writes an order for a client to have a chest tube removed. Which of the following are appropriate reasons to discontinue a chest tube? Select all that apply.
Breath sounds diminished on auscultation.
Improved respiratory status.
Symmetrical rise and fall of the chest.
Oxygen saturation at least 90%.
Continuous bubbling in water seal chamber.
Chest is asymmetrical on inspiration and expiration.
Bilateral breath sounds clear on auscultation.
Correct Answer : B,C,G
Choice A Reason:
Breath sounds diminished on auscultation indicate that there may still be fluid or air in the pleural space, suggesting that the chest tube is still needed to drain the pleural cavity. This is not an appropriate reason to discontinue a chest tube as it indicates ongoing issues that need to be resolved.
Choice B Reason:
Improved respiratory status is a key indicator that the chest tube has successfully resolved the underlying issue, such as a pneumothorax or pleural effusion. When the patient shows signs of stable and improved breathing, it suggests that the chest tube has served its purpose and can be safely removed.

Choice C Reason:
Symmetrical rise and fall of the chest during respiration indicate that both lungs are expanding and contracting normally. This symmetry is a sign that the pleural space is no longer compromised, making it an appropriate reason to remove the chest tube.
Choice D Reason:
Oxygen saturation at least 90% is a general indicator of adequate oxygenation but does not specifically address the condition of the pleural space. While important, it is not a direct reason to discontinue a chest tube without other supporting signs.
Choice E Reason:
Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates an ongoing air leak, which means that the chest tube is still necessary to evacuate air from the pleural space. This is not an appropriate reason to remove the chest tube.
Choice F Reason:
An asymmetrical chest on inspiration and expiration suggests that there is still an issue with lung expansion, possibly due to fluid or air in the pleural space. This condition requires the chest tube to remain in place until resolved.
Choice G Reason:
Bilateral breath sounds clear on auscultation indicate that both lungs are free of fluid and air, and are functioning normally. This is a strong indicator that the chest tube has achieved its purpose and can be safely removed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Lean on your back with your knees bent.
Reason: This instruction is incorrect. Pursed lip breathing is typically performed in a seated position with the neck and shoulders relaxed. Lying on your back with knees bent is not a recommended position for this breathing technique.
Choice B: Use your abdominal muscles to squeeze air out of your lungs.
Reason: This instruction is correct. Using the abdominal muscles helps to expel air more effectively from the lungs, which is a key component of pursed lip breathing. This technique helps to improve ventilation and reduce the work of breathing.

Choice C: Breathe out slowly without puffing your cheeks.
Reason: This instruction is correct. Breathing out slowly through pursed lips without puffing the cheeks helps to keep the airways open longer, allowing more air to be expelled from the lungs. This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other respiratory conditions.
Choice D: Focus on inhaling and holding your breath as long as you can.
Reason: This instruction is incorrect. The focus of pursed lip breathing is on controlled exhalation rather than holding the breath. Inhaling should be done slowly through the nose, and exhaling should be prolonged through pursed lips.
Choice E: Exhale at least twice the amount of time it took to breathe in.
Reason: This instruction is correct. The exhalation phase should be longer than the inhalation phase, typically taking at least twice as long. This helps to improve the efficiency of breathing and reduce shortness of breath.
Choice F: Open your mouth and breathe deeply.
Reason: This instruction is incorrect. Pursed lip breathing involves breathing in through the nose and exhaling through pursed lips. Opening the mouth and breathing deeply is not part of this technique.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Weight loss.
Weight loss is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. This condition speeds up the body’s metabolism, causing the body to burn calories more quickly than usual. Despite an increased appetite, individuals with hyperthyroidism often experience significant weight loss. This symptom is a direct result of the overproduction of thyroid hormones, which increases the metabolic rate.
Choice B Reason:
Intolerance to cold.
Intolerance to cold is not typically associated with hyperthyroidism; it is more commonly a symptom of hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism usually causes heat intolerance due to the increased metabolic rate, which raises the body’s temperature. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to hyperthyroidism.
Choice C Reason:
An elevated systolic blood pressure.
An elevated systolic blood pressure can be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. The increased levels of thyroid hormones can cause the heart to work harder, leading to higher blood pressure. This symptom is important to monitor as it can lead to further cardiovascular complications if left untreated.
Choice D Reason:
A heart rate of 90 bpm.
A heart rate of 90 bpm is within the normal range for adults and is not specifically indicative of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism typically causes a rapid or irregular heartbeat, often exceeding 100 bpm. Therefore, this choice does not accurately reflect a clinical manifestation of hyperthyroidism.
Choice E Reason:
Increased fatigability.
Increased fatigability is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. Despite the increased metabolic rate, individuals with hyperthyroidism often feel tired and weak. This paradoxical symptom occurs because the body’s systems are overworked and cannot sustain the heightened activity levels, leading to fatigue.
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