A physician prescribes the use of water-seal chest tube drainage for a client at a health care facility. What should the nurse ensure when using the water-seal chest tube drainage?
A) Filters need to be cleaned regularly to avoid unpleasant taste or smell.
B) The chest tube should not be separated from the drainage system unless clamped.
C) A nasal cannula should be used to administer oxygen when cleaning the opening.
D) A secondary source of oxygen should be available in case of power failure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The chest tube should not be separated from the drainage system unless clamped to avoid air entering the pleural space and disrupting the negative pressure that assists with lung inflation. The other options are not necessary precautions when using a water-seal chest tube drainage.

A Physician Prescribes the Use of Water-Seal Chest Tube Drainage