NCLEX PN Practice Tests Practice Question
The nurse is caring for a client who had thoracic surgery yesterday and has a chest tube attached to water seal drainage. The client's family asks why he has to have a chest tube. What should the nurse include in the response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A chest tube is essential post-thoracic surgery to manage pleural space issues. It removes air or fluid from the pleural cavity, allowing the lung to reexpand and function effectively.
Option A is incorrect because allowing air to enter the thoracic cavity would worsen lung collapse, not equalize pressure.
Option C is misleading; while a chest tube aids lung function, it does not directly increase oxygen availability.
Option D is also incorrect; while proper drainage can support healing, the primary function of the chest tube is not to enhance wound healing or reduce scarring.
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