Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI Quizlet Related

Review Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI Quizlet related questions and content

The healthcare provider is assessing a client with a chest tube. Which finding indicates that the chest tube is functioning properly?

  • A. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber
  • B. Tidaling in the water seal chamber
  • C. Absence of drainage in the collection chamber
  • D. Fluid level in the suction control chamber is below the prescribed level
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tidaling in the water seal chamber indicates proper chest tube function. Tidaling refers to the rise and fall of fluid in the water seal with inhalation and exhalation, demonstrating the patency of the system. Continuous bubbling (Choice A) in the water seal chamber indicates an air leak. Absence of drainage in the collection chamber (Choice C) is not a desired finding as it suggests no drainage is occurring. A fluid level below the prescribed level in the suction control chamber (Choice D) may indicate inadequate suction.