A patient has just had a chest tube inserted to dry-seal suction drainage.Which is a correct nursing intervention for maintenance?
A) Keep the head of the bed flat for 6 hours.
B) Immobilize the patient's arm on the affected side.
C) Keep the drainage system lower than the insertion site.
D) Drain condensation into the humidifier when it collects in the tubing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Keeping the drainage system below the insertion site ensures that the drainage can flow out of the chest and prevents any backflow or infection. Option A is incorrect because it's essential to elevate the head of the bed to promote lung expansion. Option B is incorrect as there is no requirement for immobilizing the arm on the affected side. Option D is incorrect because draining condensation into the humidifier can cause contamination of the drainage system.

A Patient Has Just Had a Chest Tube Inserted to Dry-Seal