A patient with a chest drainage system is admitted to the respiratory unit. The nurse notes vigorous bubbling in the water seal chamber of the system. Which of the following actions by the nurse is correct?
a. Examine the entire system and tubing for air leaks.
b. Lower the level of suction.
c. Ask the patient to cough forcefully.
d. No action is necessary; this is an expected finding.
ANS: A
Vigorous bubbling in the water seal chamber indicates an air leak. Lowering the suction level will help if vigorous bubbling is seen in the suction control chamber. Coughing forcefully can help mobilize clots. Doing nothing is inappropriate.
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