The mechanically ventilated patient has a chest tube in place for the treatment of a tension pneumothorax. Which safety supplies does the nurse ensure are at bedside to prevent complications of an accidentally-removed chest tube? Select all that apply.

Tape, Vaseline gauze , Sterile dressing. It is critical that the insertion site of an accidentally-removed chest tube be removed to prevent accumulation of air leading to a pneumothorax. Therefore, the nurse must have Vaseline gauze, a sterile dressing, and tape at the bedside to allow air to escape while preventing the entrance of air into the pleural space. Clamps and a bottle of sterile water must be kept at the bedside to prevent complications of a chest tube that remains inserted but becomes disconnected from the drainage system.

The mechanically ventilated patient has a chest tube in place for...

Category: Reduction of Risk Potential
Difficulty: 6

Topics: Disease Prevention Respiratory Crisis Management Health Promotion Nursing Interventions

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