You are caring for a patient with a chest tube. When you turn the patient to the side the tube comes disconnected. What action should you take next?
A)Notify the physician
B)Place the tube in a bottle of sterile water
C)Replace the chest tube
D)Put a sterile dressing over the disconnected site

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should immediately place the tube in a bottle of sterile water. The system can then be replaced if necessary. A sterile dressing will not prevent complications associated with disconnection. The physician will need to be notified after the tube has been placed in sterile water.

You Are Caring for a Patient with a Chest Tube