NCLEX RN Questions Medical Surgical Nursing Related

Review NCLEX RN Questions Medical Surgical Nursing related questions and content

A client who underwent a lobectomy and has a water-seal chest drainage system is breathing with a little more effort and at a faster rate than 1 hour ago. The client's pulse rate is also increased. The nurse should:

  • A. Check the tubing to ensure that the client is not lying on it or kinking it.
  • B. Increase the suction.
  • C. Lower the drainage bottles 2 to 3 feet below the level of the client's chest.
  • D. Ensure that the chest tube has two clamps on it to prevent air leaks.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Increased respiratory effort, rate, and pulse suggest a possible obstruction; checking for kinked or compressed tubing is the first step. Increasing suction, lowering bottles, or clamping tubes risks worsening the issue.