Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has a chest tube connected to a closed drainage system and needs to be transported to the x-ray department. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Keeping the drainage system below the level of the client's chest prevents the backflow of air or fluid into the client's chest, ensuring proper functioning of the chest tube. This positioning maintains the integrity of the closed drainage system and prevents complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax.
Summary of other choices:
B: Clamping the chest tube can lead to a buildup of pressure in the chest, causing potential harm to the client.
C: Disconnecting the chest tube can result in air entering the pleural space, increasing the risk of pneumothorax.
D: Emptying the collection chamber is not necessary prior to transport as it does not affect the function of the chest tube.
Rationale: Keeping the drainage system below the level of the client's chest prevents the backflow of air or fluid into the client's chest, ensuring proper functioning of the chest tube. This positioning maintains the integrity of the closed drainage system and prevents complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax.
Summary of other choices:
B: Clamping the chest tube can lead to a buildup of pressure in the chest, causing potential harm to the client.
C: Disconnecting the chest tube can result in air entering the pleural space, increasing the risk of pneumothorax.
D: Emptying the collection chamber is not necessary prior to transport as it does not affect the function of the chest tube.