A patient's chest tube becomes accidentally disconnected from the drainage system. Which action should the nurse take immediately?
Correct answer: A. Place the open tube end in sterile water
- A. Place the open tube end in sterile water
- B. Clamp the tube and leave it clamped
- C. Remove the chest tube and apply a dry dressing
- D. Reconnect it after flushing the tube with saline
Explanation
Placing the tube end in sterile water creates a temporary water seal and helps prevent air from entering the pleural space. Routine clamping can cause a dangerous tension pneumothorax, and the tube should not be removed by the nurse.
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About Respiratory Nursing
Covers nursing assessment and management of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, tuberculosis, pleural disorders and respiratory failure. Key areas include breath sounds, oxygen therapy, airway suctioning, inhaled medicines, arterial blood gases and the difference between hypoxia, hypoxemia and carbon dioxide retention.
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