Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Related

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A nurse is preparing to perform a chest tube insertion for a patient with a pneumothorax. What action should the nurse prioritize to ensure proper placement of the chest tube?

  • A. Positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler's position with arms elevated
  • B. Marking the insertion site with a pen to guide tube placement
  • C. Administering analgesia to the patient before the procedure
  • D. Confirming the insertion site and direction using imaging guidance
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because confirming the insertion site and direction using imaging guidance ensures precise placement of the chest tube, minimizing the risk of complications. Imaging guidance allows the nurse to visualize the exact location of the pneumothorax and guide the tube insertion accurately.

A: Positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler's position with arms elevated may be beneficial for comfort but does not directly ensure proper chest tube placement.
B: Marking the insertion site with a pen may help as a reference point but does not guarantee accurate placement.
C: Administering analgesia is important for the patient's comfort but does not impact the placement of the chest tube.

In summary, choice D is the most critical step to ensure the chest tube is correctly placed and effectively treats the pneumothorax.