Author Question: For a client with a pneumothorax, a nurse anticipates that the chest tube will be located at the: ... (Read 59 times)

jerry coleman · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

For a client with a pneumothorax, a nurse anticipates that the chest tube will be located at the:

A. Second to third intercostal space, anterior
B. Fifth to sixth intercostal space, posterior
C. Fifth to sixth intercostal space, lateral
D. Mediastinal area

Question 2

A nurse notes an excessive air leak of the ET cuff when auscultating. The nurse should:

A. Deflate the cuff
B. Reposition the client
C. Insert a new ET tube
D. Apply clamps to the tubing

jazzlynnnnn · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
A. Apical (second or third intercostal space) and anterior chest tube placement promotes removal of air, which is necessary in the case of a pneumothorax.
B and C. Chest tubes are placed low (usually in the fifth or sixth intercostal space) and posterior or lateral to drain fluid.
D. A mediastinal chest tube is placed in the mediastinum, just below the sternum. This tube drains blood or fluid, preventing its accumulation around the heart. A mediastinal tube is commonly used after open heart surgery.

Answer to Question 2

B
B. Reposition client or tubing.
A. Reinflate cuff if needed.
C. Prepare for insertion of new tube by physician or trained personnel if cuff ruptures.
D. Applying clamps to tubing may damage tubing and does not change air in cuff.