When caring for a child with a chest tube, it is important for the pediatric nurse to ensure that no part of the system is ever clamped. This is especially important if there is an air leak, which could put the child at risk for which medical condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clamping a chest tube, especially in the presence of an air leak, can prevent air from escaping the pleural space, leading to increased pressure in the chest. This can result in a tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition where the pressure in the pleural space becomes so high that it compresses the lung and shifts mediastinal structures, potentially compromising cardiac output and respiratory function.

When Caring for a Child with a Chest Tube, It