Saunders Respiratory Practice

When assessing a client with a chest tube, what sign might indicate potential respiratory distress?

1. Consistent bubbling in the water-seal chamber

2. Decreased breath sounds on the affected side

3. Increased drainage from the chest tube

4. Intermittent suctioning sounds

The correct answer is: Decreased breath sounds on the affected side

Decreased breath sounds on the affected side is a significant indicator of potential respiratory distress when assessing a client with a chest tube. This finding may suggest that air or fluid is accumulating in the pleural space, which can lead to complications such as a tension pneumothorax or pleural effusion, impairing the lung's ability to expand fully and decreasing oxygenation. The presence of diminished or absent breath sounds on the affected side can alert healthcare providers to the need for immediate intervention to restore proper lung function and prevent further respiratory compromise. Consistent bubbling in the water-seal chamber might suggest air leak, but it does not directly indicate respiratory distress. Increased drainage from the chest tube could indicate an issue requiring monitoring, but again, it doesn't specifically correlate with respiratory distress. Intermittent suctioning sounds are usually related to the function of the chest drainage system and do not provide clear evidence of the patient's respiratory status.