Medical Surgical Nursing NCLEX RN Questions Related

Review Medical Surgical Nursing NCLEX RN Questions related questions and content

While assessing a thoracotomy incisional area from which a chest tube exits, the nurse feels a crackling sensation under the fingertips along the entire incision. Which of the following should be the nurse's first action?

  • A. Lower the head of the bed and call the physician.
  • B. Prepare an aspiration tray.
  • C. Mark the area with a skin pencil at the outer perippliess to the crackling.
  • D. Turn off the suction of the chest drainage system.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The crackling sensation indicates subcutaneous emphysema. Marking the area monitors its spread, guiding further action. Lowering the bed, preparing aspiration, or turning off suction are not immediate priorities.