The nurse who is assessing a client's chest tube insertion site notices a fine crackling sound and feeling upon palpating the area.What action should the nurse take?
A)Discontinue the chest tube suction.
B)Collaborate with the client's physician.
C)Mark the area involved and remove the tube.
D)Reinforce the chest tube dressing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fine crackling sound and feeling upon palpation may indicate subcutaneous emphysema, which can be caused by air escaping from the lungs and entering the tissues around the insertion site. This is a serious complication that requires collaboration with the client's physician to determine the appropriate course of action. Discontinuing suction, removing the tube, or reinforcing the dressing may not address the underlying problem and could potentially make it worse.

The Nurse Who Is Assessing a Client's Chest Tube Insertion