NCLEX RN Medical Surgical Questions and Answers Related

Review NCLEX RN Medical Surgical Questions and Answers related questions and content

A client with rib fractures and a pneumothorax has a chest tube inserted that is connected to a water-seal chest tube drainage system. The nurse notes that the fluid in the water-seal column is fluctuating with each breath that the client takes. What is the significance of this fluctuation?

  • A. An obstruction is present in the chest tube.
  • B. The client is developing subcutaneous emphysema.
  • C. The chest tube system is functioning properly.
  • D. There is a leak in the chest tube system.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Fluctuation in the water-seal column with breathing indicates a patent chest tube system, reflecting pleural pressure changes. Obstruction, emphysema, or leaks would show different signs.