Chest Tube Practice Quiz

A hollow tube inserted into the chest to remove air or fluid from the pleural space, restoring negative pressure and lung function.

A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, collapsing the lung.

The chest tube is typically inserted at the mid-clavicular line, 2nd intercostal space, near the apex of the lung for air removal.

Intermittent bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates air is being removed from the pleural space. Continuous bubbling suggests a leak in the system.

Taping three sides of the dressing allows air to escape during exhalation but prevents air entry during inhalation, preventing a tension pneumothorax.

Wet suction systems regulate suction pressure using the height of water in the suction control chamber.

A sudden increase in bright red drainage indicates active bleeding and requires immediate intervention.

Submerging the distal end in sterile water creates a temporary water seal, preventing air from entering the pleural space.

Vaseline gauze creates an airtight seal at the chest tube insertion site, preventing air from re-entering the pleural space.

Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber suggests an air leak in the system.

Post-insertion assessments focus on lung re-expansion and respiratory status, including lung sounds and respiratory effort.

The patient may be instructed to hold their breath during chest tube removal (Valsalva maneuver) to stop air from entering the pleural space.

The chest tube drainage system should remain below the level of the chest to prevent backflow of drainage into the pleural cavity.

Symmetrical chest expansion and clear lung sounds suggest the lung has re-expanded, indicating the chest tube is ready for removal.

Air can leak into subcutaneous tissue, causing swelling and crepitus (crackling sensation) upon palpation.

Tidaling reflects natural changes in intrapleural pressure during breathing.

The primary nursing goal is to prevent infection and ensure lung re-expansion by removing air or fluid from the pleural space.

Continuous bubbling indicates an air leak in the system, requiring the nurse to identify and address the source of the leak.

Shortness of breath after chest tube removal may indicate a complication such as re-accumulation of air or fluid in the pleural space.

Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air leaks into the tissue around the chest tube insertion site, causing swelling and crepitus (crackling sensation) on palpation.

Clamping a chest tube is only done momentarily, such as when changing the collection system, to prevent complications like tension pneumothorax.

Ensure the water seal chamber is intact and properly functioning to maintain the effectiveness of the chest tube system.

The goal of chest tube therapy is to alleviate symptoms, re-expand the lung, and remove blood or fluid from the pleural space.

Sudden cessation of drainage is a serious concern, as it may indicate a blockage or other complication requiring immediate attention.

Having emergency equipment readily available like Vaseline gauze, sterile water, and hemostats is crucial for managing dislodgement or disconnection of the chest tube.

Increased pain during deep breathing could indicate complications like subcutaneous emphysema or tube misplacement, requiring further assessment.

Absence of tidaling may indicate lung re-expansion, meaning the tube may be ready for removal, or it may indicate an obstruction in the tubing, requiring further investigation.

Sitting upright or lying on the unaffected side provides optimal access for chest tube placement.

Transitioning to a water seal is typically done when the lung is almost fully re-expanded and fluid drainage has slowed.

Pre-medicating the patient before chest tube removal reduces pain and anxiety during the procedure, improving their comfort.