PracticeQuiz content is free on an ad-supported model.

Unfortunately, we can't support ad blocker usage because of the impact on our servers. If you'd like to continue, please disable your ad blocker and reload page.

Reload page

NCLEX-RN Exam Practice

Category - Respiratory

Start a Study Session Sign up for Question of the Day

You have assisted the physician with insertion of a chest tube. As you monitor the fluid level in the water seal chamber you notice fluctuations in the fluid. What is the appropriate action?

Notify the physician.
Encourage the patient to deep breathe.
This is a normal finding.
Reinforce the dressing.

Explanation

Answer: C - Fluctuations of the fluid in the water seal chamber is a normal finding and the nurse should do nothing at this point. The water levels will rise and fall with the patient’s breathing pattern. The fluctuations will stop if the tube is obstructed, if suction is not working or if the lung is reexpanded.

Previous Next

Was this helpful? Upvote!

Start a Study Session Sign up for Question of the Day

NCLEX-RN Exam Practice

Top questions

Related questions

Most popular on PracticeQuiz

Ad-Blocker not supported

NCLEX-RN Exam Practice

Top questions

Related questions

Most popular on PracticeQuiz