Saunders Respiratory Practice

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Study for the Saunders Respiratory Exam with comprehensive quizzes that enhance your knowledge and confidence. Our platform offers engaging flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations to prepare you for success in your respiratory practice exam.

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What is the purpose of placing the open end of a disconnected chest tube under sterile water?

To prevent air from entering the pleural space
To clean the tube
To maintain suction pressure
To keep the tube sterile

The correct answer is: To prevent air from entering the pleural space

Placing the open end of a disconnected chest tube under sterile water serves the specific purpose of preventing air from entering the pleural space. When the chest tube is disconnected, there is a risk that atmospheric air could enter the pleural cavity, which could lead to complications such as a pneumothorax. By submerging the end of the tube in sterile water, a "water seal" is created. This effectively acts as a barrier, allowing air and fluid to escape from the pleural space while preventing the entrance of air into that space. This technique is particularly important in maintaining the integrity of the negative pressure within the pleural cavity, thereby promoting proper lung expansion and respiratory function.