Question

The nurse is caring for the client 1 hour following chest tube insertion. Click to highlight the findings in the nurses' note that indicate the client's condition is improving.

Option 1: Decreased respiratory rate, absence of crepitus, and clear breath sounds.

Option 2: Increased heart rate, reduced breath sounds, and heightened chest pain.

Option 3: Persistent crepitus, diminished breath sounds, and increased chest tube drainage.

Option 4: Improved chest symmetry, decreased pain, and absence of subcutaneous emphysema.

Answer 1

Option 1, with decreased respiratory rate, absence of crepitus, and clear breath sounds, indicates a client's improvement following chest tube insertion.

Step-by-step explanation:

When evaluating the improvement of a client's condition following chest tube insertion, healthcare professionals look for specific clinical signs. An improvement is indicated by a decreased respiratory rate, which signifies less effort is needed for breathing, the absence of crepitus, indicating no air leaks into the tissue, and clear breath sounds, which suggest that the lungs are expanding properly and are free from fluid or air that might impede lung function. Therefore, among the presented options, Option 1 - indicating decreased respiratory rate, absence of crepitus, and clear breath sounds - would represent a client's improving condition.