The nurse is caring for a client who has a right-sided chest tube following a thoracotomy and has continuous bubbling in the suction-control chamber of the collection device. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement?
A)Document the presence of a large air leak
B)Obtain and attach a new collection device
C)Notify the surgeon of a possible pneumothorax
D)Take no further action with the collection device

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Continuous bubbling is expected in the suction-control chamber and indicates that the suction-control chamber is connected to suction. An air leak would be detected in the water-seal chamber. There is no evidence of pneumothorax. A new collection device is needed when the collection chamber is filled.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Has a Right-Sided