While palpating around your patient's chest tube site, you feel "rice crispies" crackling under the skin and hear crackling sounds. You will immediately notify the physician as thi... While palpating around your patient's chest tube site, you feel "rice crispies" crackling under the skin and hear crackling sounds. You will immediately notify the physician as this is _______ and indicative of _______:
Understand the Problem
The question describes a scenario where, upon palpating a patient's chest tube site, a "rice crispies" crackling sensation is felt under the skin, accompanied by crackling sounds. The question asks what this indicates and why the physician should be notified immediately. The answer is likely related to a complication arising from the chest tube insertion.
Answer
Subcutaneous emphysema; poor seal at chest tube site
The correct answer is Subcutaneous emphysema; poor seal at chest tube site
Answer for screen readers
The correct answer is Subcutaneous emphysema; poor seal at chest tube site
More Information
Subcutaneous emphysema is when air gets into tissues under the skin. So feeling 'rice crispies' means air is trapped there, often because the chest tube isn't sealed properly.
Tips
Don't confuse subcutaneous emphysema with other conditions like respiratory distress or deep vein thrombosis, which have different signs and causes.
Sources
- Chapter 28 AD2.docx - Chapter 28-Supporting Ventilation... - coursehero.com
- Free Flashcards about Ch. 20 & NCLEX-? - Study Stack - studystack.com
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