A nurse is caring for a client who is 1-day postoperative following a left lower lobectomy and has a chest tube in place. When assessing the client’s three-chamber drainage system, the nurse notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Documenting is important but not the first action. No bubbling in the suction control chamber suggests a suction failure, requiring immediate correction to maintain chest drainage, making this choice secondary to checking the system. Choice B reason: Adding water is incorrect, as the suction control chamber’s water level regulates suction, not its presence. No bubbling indicates a suction source issue, not low water, making this choice inappropriate for the problem. Choice C reason: No bubbling in the suction control chamber suggests a disconnected or malfunctioning suction source. Checking the suction source and connections ensures proper negative pressure, restoring system function, making this the correct first action. Choice D reason: Milking the tubing is outdated and risks dislodging clots or damaging lung tissue. The issue is suction failure, not tubing obstruction, making this choice incorrect and potentially harmful for the client.