Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has a pneumothorax and a closed-chest drainage system. Which of the following findings is an indication of lung re-expansion?

(a) Decreased chest tube drainage
(b) Increased chest tube drainage
(c) Fluctuation in the water seal chamber
(d) Absence of bubbling in the water seal chamber

Answer 1

The absence of bubbling in the water seal chamber of a closed-chest drainage system indicates lung re-expansion in a patient with a pneumothorax.

Step-by-step explanation:

The indication of lung re-expansion in a client who has a pneumothorax and is connected to a closed-chest drainage system is the absence of bubbling in the water seal chamber (option d). During the normal operation of a closed-chest drainage system, the water seal chamber allows for the monitoring of air leaks from the lung or chest wall. Initially, when the lung is collapsed, you might see intermittent bubbling in the water seal chamber, indicating the presence of an air leak. As the lung re-expands and the leak seals, the bubbling will cease. This absence of bubbling suggests that no more air is being collected and is a positive sign of lung re-expansion. Note, however, that other factors, such as a blockage in the drainage system or if the suction is not properly applied, can also stop the bubbling, so it is important to assess the overall clinical picture.