The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with a Chest

Multiple Choice

The nurse is caring for a patient with a chest tube who was transported to radiology for testing. When the patient returns to the nursing unit, the transporter shows the nurse the patient's chest tube collection device, which was badly damaged after being caught in the elevator door. What is the priority action of the nurse?

A) Clamp the chest tube until the collection device is replaced.
B) Cover the insertion site with a new occlusive dressing.
C) Ensure that there is gentle bubbling in the water seal chamber.
D) Check the patient's lung sounds and pulse oximetry.