A client's chest tube becomes disconnected from the drainage tubing. What is the nurse's immediate action?

Question

Accepted Answer

B. Submerge the end of the chest tube in sterile water — If the chest tube disconnects from the drainage system, the priority is to re-establish a water seal by placing the tube end in sterile water until the system can be replaced. Routine clamping can worsen a pneumothorax.

Answer

A. Clamp the chest tube close to the chest wall

Answer

C. Remove the chest tube and apply a dry dressing

Answer

D. Lay the client flat and call housekeeping