A patient who is being mechanically ventilated also has a pleural chest tube. The nurse becomes concerned that the chest tube is not functioning correctly. Which actions should the nurse take?. Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should look for tidaling in both the tube and the diagnostic fluid chamber to assess the function of the chest tube. Clamping the chest tube or increasing suction could exacerbate any potential issues and should not be done without medical orders. Disconnecting the suction source could impair the function of the chest tube and should also not be done without medical orders.

A Patient Who Is Being Mechanically Ventilated Also Has a Pleural