Adult Medical Surgical ATI Related

Review Adult Medical Surgical ATI related questions and content

A client is 1 day postoperative following a lobectomy with a chest tube drainage system in place. Which finding by the nurse indicates a need for intervention?

  • A. Chest tube eyelets not visible
  • B. Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber
  • C. Presence of tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber
  • D. Development of subcutaneous emphysema
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Development of subcutaneous emphysema. This finding indicates air leakage, which can lead to potential complications like tension pneumothorax. Subcutaneous emphysema is a serious concern that requires immediate intervention.

A: Chest tube eyelets not visible - This is not a concerning finding as long as the chest tube is properly secured and functioning.
B: Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber - This can indicate proper functioning of the system.
C: Presence of tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber - This indicates that the system is working correctly, with the water seal chamber fluctuating with the patient's breathing.