Free Medical Surgical Certification Practice Questions Related

Review Free Medical Surgical Certification Practice Questions related questions and content

A nurse assesses a client who has a mediastinal chest tube. Which symptoms require the nurse's immediate intervention? (Select ONE that does not apply)

  • A. Production of pink sputum
  • B. Tracheal deviation
  • C. Pain at insertion site
  • D. Sudden onset of shortness of breath
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Production of pink sputum. Pink sputum can indicate bleeding, which is a serious complication with a mediastinal chest tube. Immediate intervention is needed to prevent further complications. Tracheal deviation (B) can indicate tension pneumothorax, requiring immediate intervention. Pain at insertion site (C) may indicate infection or dislodgement, also needing prompt attention. Sudden onset of shortness of breath (D) can suggest a pneumothorax, which requires immediate intervention as well. However, the production of pink sputum is the most critical due to the potential for severe complications like hemorrhage.