ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has a three-chamber closed chest tube system. Which of the following actions should the nurse take after noticing a rise in the water seal chamber with client inspiration?

  • A. Continue to monitor the client.
  • B. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
  • C. Increase the suction level.
  • D. Reposition the client.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The rise in the water seal chamber with client inspiration indicates that the chest tube system is functioning properly. This rise is expected as the negative pressure in the pleural space increases during inspiration, causing the water level to momentarily increase. It is important for the nurse to understand this physiological response and continue to monitor the client for any signs of respiratory distress. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately or increasing suction level is unnecessary and may disrupt the client's respiratory status. Repositioning the client is not indicated in this situation.