A client who had a chest tube removed 2 hours ago is now experiencing dyspnea and tachypnea. What action should the practical nurse take first?

A. Observe for tracheal deviation: Assessing for tracheal deviation is important to detect tension pneumothorax, but the immediate action to relieve dyspnea is positioning the client upright to improve ventilation. B. Raise the head of the bed: Elevating the head of the bed helps expand lung fields, improves oxygenation, and reduces work of breathing. This is the priority intervention for a client experiencing acute dyspnea and tachypnea after chest tube removal. C. Give oxygen at 2 liters/nasal cannula: Administering oxygen supports oxygenation, but positioning the client first can immediately enhance lung expansion and ease breathing while preparing for further interventions. D. Reassure and stay with the client: Providing reassurance is important for anxiety reduction, but it does not directly address the client’s respiratory distress, which is the priority at this moment.