Which assessment indicates to the nurse that the chest tube in a water seal drainage device is working correctly?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fluctuation of the column of water in the water seal indicates that the chest tube is functioning correctly. This fluctuation occurs with the patient’s inspiration and expiration, demonstrating proper communication between the pleural space and the water seal. A constant bubbling in the suction control or water seal chamber may indicate an air leak, which can be problematic and require intervention. A decrease of accumulation in the drainage chamber may indicate improvement in the patient’s condition but does not necessarily indicate proper functioning of the chest tube.

Which Assessment Indicates to the Nurse That the Chest Tube