If constant bubbling is noted in the water seal chamber of a closed chest tube drainage system, what should the nurse do first?

If constant bubbling is noted in the water seal chamber of a closed chest tube drainage system, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Document assessment findings, actions taken, and client response.
• B. Assess the system for an external air leak.
• C. Change the chest drainage system.
• D. Notify the healthcare provider of findings.

Answer: (B)

When constant bubbling is observed in the water seal chamber of a closed chest tube drainage system, it indicates that there may be an air leak within the system. Identifying the source of the leak is critical because it can compromise the effectiveness of the chest tube in re-establishing negative pressure in the pleural space, which is necessary for proper lung expansion. The priority action in this situation is to first assess the system for an external air leak. This involves checking the connections of the chest tube, drainage unit, and the insertion site to ensure that they are secure and not allowing air to enter. Identifying and addressing the leak can prevent further complications, such as pneumothorax or inadequate drainage, and ultimately provides a clear path to resolving the patient's condition more effectively. After addressing the possibility of an external air leak and ensuring the integrity of the system, the nurse can then consider further actions such as documenting the findings, notifying the healthcare provider, or potentially changing the drainage system if necessary. However, it is essential to assess the system for an air leak first as it is a critical step in managing and prioritizing patient safety and care.

When constant bubbling is observed in the water seal chamber of a closed chest tube drainage system, it indicates that there may be an air leak within the system. Identifying the source of the leak is critical because it can compromise the effectiveness of the chest tube in re-establishing negative pressure in the pleural space, which is necessary for proper lung expansion.

The priority action in this situation is to first assess the system for an external air leak. This involves checking the connections of the chest tube, drainage unit, and the insertion site to ensure that they are secure and not allowing air to enter. Identifying and addressing the leak can prevent further complications, such as pneumothorax or inadequate drainage, and ultimately provides a clear path to resolving the patient's condition more effectively.

After addressing the possibility of an external air leak and ensuring the integrity of the system, the nurse can then consider further actions such as documenting the findings, notifying the healthcare provider, or potentially changing the drainage system if necessary. However, it is essential to assess the system for an air leak first as it is a critical step in managing and prioritizing patient safety and care.