ATI PN Adult Medical Surgical 2019 Related

Review ATI PN Adult Medical Surgical 2019 related questions and content

The healthcare professional is caring for a client with a chest tube following a thoracotomy. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

  • A. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber.
  • B. Serosanguineous drainage in the collection chamber.
  • C. Intermittent bubbling in the suction control chamber.
  • D. Chest tube secured to the client's chest wall.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates an air leak in the system, which can lead to pneumothorax or compromised lung function. Immediate intervention is required to prevent complications. Serosanguineous drainage in the collection chamber (B) is expected after thoracotomy. Intermittent bubbling in the suction control chamber (C) is normal and indicates proper suction function. Chest tube secured to the client's chest wall (D) is essential for stability and should not require immediate intervention.