The healthcare provider is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water seal drainage system. Which of the following indicates to the healthcare provider that the chest tube is functioning properly?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber. This indicates proper chest tube function as it shows that the system is maintaining the desired pressure and allowing for adequate drainage without obstruction. When the patient breathes in and out, the fluid level fluctuates due to changes in intrathoracic pressure.
Explanation of other choices:
B: Absence of fluid in the drainage tubing - This would indicate a problem with drainage, possibly due to a blockage in the tubing.
C: Continuous bubbling within the water seal chamber - This would suggest an air leak in the system, which is not ideal as it can lead to lung collapse.
D: Equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber - While equal drainage is good, it does not specifically indicate proper chest tube function like the fluctuation of the fluid level does.