HESI Fundamentals Related

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The client has a chest tube. What is the most important action for the nurse to take?

  • A. Ensure the chest tube remains unclamped at all times.
  • B. Empty the chest tube every 2 hours.
  • C. Keep the drainage system below the level of the chest.
  • D. Assess for subcutaneous emphysema.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Keeping the drainage system below the level of the chest (C) is crucial to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow of air or fluid into the chest cavity. This position helps maintain the integrity of the closed drainage system. Ensuring the chest tube remains unclamped at all times (A) allows for continuous drainage. Emptying the chest tube (B) should be done as needed, not routinely every 2 hours. Assessing for subcutaneous emphysema (D) is important but not the most critical action in this scenario.