The nurse would check for leaks in the chest tube and water seal system when:
there is continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber.
the water levels in the water-seal chamber and suction chambers are decreased.
fluid in the water-seal chamber fluctuates with the client's breathing.
there is constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber.
The Correct Answer is A
A. There is continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber suggests a potential air leak in the system, which needs to be investigated. The water-seal chamber is designed to prevent backflow of air into the pleural space, and persistent bubbling typically indicates that air is escaping from the pleural cavity or there is a problem with the tubing or chest tube placement. This is the first sign that the system may not be sealed properly and should be checked for leaks.
B. The water levels in the water-seal chamber and suction chambers are decreased: Decreased water levels in both the water-seal and suction chambers may be indicative of fluid loss or evaporation, but it does not necessarily point to a leak. In the case of a chest tube, water levels may also drop due to suction pressure or gradual evaporation, which would need to be adjusted or monitored. While this should be addressed, it is not an immediate cause for suspicion of an air leak in the system.
C. Fluid in the water-seal chamber fluctuates with the client's breathing: The fluctuation (also known as "tidaling") in the water-seal chamber is a normal finding that occurs when the client breathes in and out. It reflects the pressure changes in the pleural cavity during respiration. The absence of tidaling might indicate that the lung has re-expanded or that there is a blockage in the tubing. While tidaling is a normal occurrence, the absence or abnormality of this fluctuation would require further assessment but not for an air leak.
D. There is constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber: Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber generally indicates that suction is appropriately applied to the system. However, if there is continuous bubbling in this chamber, it is typically related to the level of suction being applied, not an air leak. This is a normal occurrence and does not require checking for leaks in the system unless suction pressure is too high or low for optimal functioning.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Monitor the client's pulse oximetry every shift:
Monitoring pulse oximetry every shift is not sufficient when caring for a client on a ventilator. Pulse oximetry provides valuable information about oxygen saturation, but it should be checked more frequently, especially in a critically ill patient on a ventilator. Continuous monitoring may be required to ensure that oxygenation is maintained at optimal levels. The nurse should assess the pulse oximetry regularly and take immediate action if there is a significant change in the client’s oxygen saturation.
B) Assess the client's respiratory status at least every 1-2 hours:
It is essential to assess the client's respiratory status frequently when they are on a ventilator. Respiratory assessments should be performed at least every 1-2 hours to monitor for complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, changes in oxygenation, or the need for adjustments to the ventilator settings. Regular assessment is critical to detect early signs of deterioration and respond promptly.
C) Ensure that a manual resuscitation bag is at the bedside:
Having a manual resuscitation bag (e.g., Ambu bag) at the bedside is a critical intervention for clients on a ventilator. In case of ventilator malfunction, extubation, or respiratory distress, the nurse must have immediate access to a resuscitation bag to manually ventilate the patient. This is a lifesaving piece of equipment that should always be present and ready for use.
D) Check the ventilator settings every shift:
It is essential to check ventilator settings every shift to ensure that the ventilator is functioning correctly and providing the appropriate levels of support for the patient. This includes checking settings such as tidal volume, respiratory rate, pressure, and FiO2 (fraction of inspired oxygen) to ensure they are appropriate for the client's condition. Regular checks can help detect problems such as changes in settings or malfunctioning equipment.
E) Collaborate frequently with the respiratory therapist:
Frequent collaboration with the respiratory therapist is crucial when managing a client on a ventilator. Respiratory therapists are experts in ventilator management and can provide valuable insight into adjusting settings, interpreting ABGs, troubleshooting equipment issues, and optimizing respiratory care. Collaborative care helps ensure that the client is receiving the most appropriate interventions and adjustments for their respiratory status.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Reports taking an extra dose each day of their anticholinesterase medication."
This client is at highest risk for developing a cholinergic crisis. A cholinergic crisis occurs when there is overdose or excessive stimulation of acetylcholine receptors due to too much anticholinesterase medication. Symptoms include muscle weakness, respiratory distress, salivation, sweating, and bradycardia. Taking an extra dose of the medication can result in an overdose of acetylcholine, triggering these symptoms. Therefore, this client is at the greatest risk for a cholinergic crisis.
B. "Is experiencing a respiratory infection and is short of breath."
While respiratory infections can worsen symptoms of myasthenia gravis due to increased muscle weakness, this client is not directly at risk for a cholinergic crisis. Respiratory infections can increase the risk of myasthenic crisis, which is a different complication where muscle weakness worsens to the point of respiratory failure. A myasthenic crisis is caused by insufficient anticholinesterase medication or a disease exacerbation, not an overdose.
C. "Has a family history of autoimmune disorders."
A family history of autoimmune disorders may suggest a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases, but it does not increase the risk of a cholinergic crisis specifically. The risk of a cholinergic crisis is more directly related to medication management, not family history.
D. "Has a past medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus."
Type 2 diabetes mellitus does not directly increase the risk of a cholinergic crisis. While diabetes may influence overall health and immune function, it does not have a direct impact on anticholinesterase therapy or the risk of cholinergic crisis in myasthenia gravis.
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