Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has a chest tube in place that is attached to a closed-chest drainage system. Which of the following actions should the nurse take if the chest tube becomes dislodged from the closed chest drainage system?

A) Clamp the chest tube immediately.
B) Reinsert the chest tube into the drainage system.
C) Tape a sterile occlusive dressing over the dislodged site.
D) Notify the healthcare provider and wait for further instructions.

Answer 1

If a chest tube becomes dislodged from a closed-chest drainage system, a nurse should tape a sterile occlusive dressing over the dislodged site to maintain a closed system.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a chest tube becomes dislodged from a closed-chest drainage system, the nurse should tape a sterile occlusive dressing over the dislodged site to maintain a closed system. This will help prevent air or fluid from entering or exiting the chest cavity and potentially causing harm to the client. By creating an airtight seal, the nurse ensures that the chest tube continues to function properly.

Clamping the chest tube (option A) is not recommended as it would obstruct the drainage system and prevent proper functioning. Reinserting the chest tube without proper sterile technique (option B) can introduce infection. Notifying the healthcare provider and waiting for further instructions (option D) may result in a delayed response.