Questions and Answers on Respiratory System Related

Review Questions and Answers on Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse is assisting a physician with the removal of a chest tube. The nurse should instruct the client to:

  • A. Exhale slowly
  • B. Stay very still
  • C. Inhale and exhale quickly
  • D. Perform the Valsalva maneuver
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Perform the Valsalva maneuver. The Valsalva maneuver involves holding the breath and bearing down, which helps prevent air from entering the pleural space during chest tube removal, reducing the risk of a pneumothorax. Exhaling slowly (A) or inhaling and exhaling quickly (C) can increase the risk of air entering the pleural space. Staying very still (B) is important to minimize movement during the procedure, but performing the Valsalva maneuver is crucial to prevent complications.