The health care provider inserts a chest tube in a client with a hemo-pneumothorax. When monitoring the client after the chest tube placement, which of the following findings is of greatest concern?
A)A large air leak in the water-seal chamber
B)400 mL of blood in the collection chamber
C)Complaint of pain with each deep inspiration
D)Subcutaneous emphysema at the insertion site

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The large amount of blood may indicate that the client is in danger of developing hypovolemic shock. Drainage greater than 100 mL is to be reported to the health care provider. A large air leak would be expected immediately after chest tube placement for pneumothorax. The pain should be treated but is not as urgent a concern as the possibility of continued hemorrhage. Subcutaneous emphysema should be monitored but is not unusual in a client with pneumothorax.

The Health Care Provider Inserts a Chest Tube in a Client