Which symptom will the nurse anticipate in a patient diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) with a non-sustained ventricular response?

Choice A Reason:

Breath sounds diminished on auscultation indicate that there may still be fluid or air in the pleural space, suggesting that the chest tube is still needed to drain the pleural cavity. This is not an appropriate reason to discontinue a chest tube as it indicates ongoing issues that need to be resolved.

Choice B Reason:

Improved respiratory status is a key indicator that the chest tube has successfully resolved the underlying issue, such as a pneumothorax or pleural effusion. When the patient shows signs of stable and improved breathing, it suggests that the chest tube has served its purpose and can be safely removed.

Choice C Reason:

Symmetrical rise and fall of the chest during respiration indicate that both lungs are expanding and contracting normally. This symmetry is a sign that the pleural space is no longer compromised, making it an appropriate reason to remove the chest tube.

Choice D Reason:

Oxygen saturation at least 90% is a general indicator of adequate oxygenation but does not specifically address the condition of the pleural space. While important, it is not a direct reason to discontinue a chest tube without other supporting signs.

Choice E Reason:

Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates an ongoing air leak, which means that the chest tube is still necessary to evacuate air from the pleural space. This is not an appropriate reason to remove the chest tube.

Choice F Reason:

An asymmetrical chest on inspiration and expiration suggests that there is still an issue with lung expansion, possibly due to fluid or air in the pleural space. This condition requires the chest tube to remain in place until resolved.

Choice G Reason:

Bilateral breath sounds clear on auscultation indicate that both lungs are free of fluid and air, and are functioning normally. This is a strong indicator that the chest tube has achieved its purpose and can be safely removed.

Choice A Reason:

0.45% sodium chloride (half-normal saline) is an appropriate solution for treating hypernatremia, especially in a client who is NPO (nothing by mouth). This hypotonic solution helps to gradually reduce the serum sodium levels by providing free water to the extracellular space, which dilutes the high sodium concentration. It is essential to administer this solution slowly to avoid rapid shifts in fluid balance, which can lead to cerebral edema.

Choice B Reason:

Dextrose 5% in 0.9% sodium chloride (D5NS) is not the best choice for treating hypernatremia. While it provides some free water, the presence of 0.9% sodium chloride makes it an isotonic solution, which does not effectively lower serum sodium levels. This solution is more suitable for maintaining fluid balance rather than correcting hypernatremia.

Choice C Reason:

Lactated Ringer’s is also not appropriate for treating hypernatremia. This isotonic solution contains electrolytes, including sodium, which can exacerbate hypernatremia rather than correct it. Lactated Ringer’s is typically used for fluid resuscitation and electrolyte replacement in other clinical scenarios.

Choice D Reason:

Dextrose 10% in water (D10W) is a hypertonic solution and is not suitable for treating hypernatremia. While it provides free water, the high concentration of dextrose can lead to rapid shifts in fluid balance and potential complications such as hyperglycemia. This solution is generally used for providing calories and preventing hypoglycemia in specific clinical situations.