HESI PN Exit Exam 2024 Related

Review HESI PN Exit Exam 2024 related questions and content

When caring for a patient with a chest tube, which nursing action is most important?

  • A. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours to prevent air leaks
  • B. Keeping the drainage system below chest level
  • C. Emptying the drainage system every hour to prevent backflow
  • D. Removing the chest tube when drainage decreases significantly
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most crucial nursing action when caring for a patient with a chest tube is to keep the drainage system below chest level (choice B). This position helps ensure proper drainage and prevents backflow of fluid or air into the pleural space, promoting optimal functioning of the chest tube. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (choice A) is incorrect as it can obstruct the drainage system and lead to complications. Emptying the drainage system every hour (choice C) is unnecessary unless there are specific clinical indications. Removing the chest tube when drainage decreases significantly (choice D) is also incorrect as the decision should be based on overall clinical assessment rather than drainage amount alone.