ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 2 Related

Review ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 2 related questions and content

What does continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber of a chest tube indicate?

  • A. An air leak
  • B. A blocked chest tube
  • C. Normal chest tube function
  • D. Continuous drainage from the chest tube
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber of a chest tube indicates an air leak in the system. This occurs when air is entering the system through a leak, preventing the lung from fully re-expanding. Choice B, a blocked chest tube, is incorrect as a blocked tube would result in a lack of drainage rather than continuous bubbling. Choice C, normal chest tube function, is incorrect as continuous bubbling signifies an issue. Choice D, continuous drainage from the chest tube, is incorrect as bubbling in the water seal chamber specifically indicates an air leak, not just the presence of drainage.