A client has a mediastinal chest tube. Which symptom requires the nurse's immediate intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tracheal deviation. Tracheal deviation indicates a tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent respiratory compromise. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Production of pink sputum may indicate bleeding but does not require immediate intervention unless severe.
C: Drainage greater than 70 mL/hr may indicate a potential issue with the chest tube, but it does not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other symptoms.
D: Sudden onset of shortness of breath is concerning but not as immediately life-threatening as tracheal deviation in this context.