A patient with a chest tube after treatment for pneumothorax suddenly becomes more breathless. The water-seal chamber has no tidaling, and the tubing is kinked under the patient. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: A. Straighten the tubing and reassess the patient
- A. Straighten the tubing and reassess the patient
- B. Clamp the tube close to the chest
- C. Strip the tubing forcefully toward the drainage unit
- D. Disconnect the tubing and leave it open to air
Explanation
A kink can obstruct chest drainage and prevent air from leaving the pleural space. Straightening the tubing is the safest immediate action; routine clamping or forceful stripping can worsen the pneumothorax or damage tissue.
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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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