A nurse is planning postoperative care for a client who is scheduled for a thoracotomy with chest tube placement. Which of the following pieces of equipment should the nurse plan to have at the client’s bedside?
A.
Wire cutters
B.
Montgomery straps
C.
Tracheostomy tray
D.
Padded clamp
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Wire cutters.
Explanation:
After a thoracotomy with chest tube placement, the client will have a chest tube inserted to drain air, fluid, or blood from the pleural space. It is crucial to be prepared for emergencies related to chest tube management, and having wire cutters at the bedside is an important part of this preparedness.
Wire Cutters: Wire cutters are essential in a postoperative setting involving chest tubes because they provide a means to quickly and safely remove the chest tube if it becomes dislodged or if an emergency situation arises. In some cases, the chest tube may be secured with wires or sutures, and wire cutters allow for rapid removal of these securing materials. Having wire cutters readily available can be a life-saving measure, enabling the nurse to address emergencies promptly.
Montgomery Straps: Montgomery straps are not relevant in this situation. They are used in wound care to secure dressings in place, particularly when repeated dressing changes are needed. They are not applicable to chest tube care.
Tracheostomy Tray: A tracheostomy tray is used for clients with tracheostomies, not for those with chest tubes. This tray contains equipment for tracheostomy care and emergency management, which is not required for managing a chest tube.
Padded Clamp: A padded clamp is used to temporarily occlude a chest tube to assess for air leaks or to manage certain situations. However, it is less critical than wire cutters in emergencies where immediate tube removal might be necessary.
In summary, having wire cutters at the bedside is crucial for managing emergencies related to chest tube placement, as they allow for the rapid and safe removal of securing materials if needed.