A client has a pleural chest tube. Which action should the nurse take to ensure safe use of this equipment?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Keep padded clamps at the bedside for use if the drainage system is interrupted. This is essential because if the drainage system is interrupted, the nurse needs to immediately clamp the tube to prevent air from entering the pleural space. Clamping the tube can prevent a potentially life-threatening situation. A: Never strip the tubing to maintain patency - Stripping the tubing can lead to increased negative pressure, which can be harmful. B: Secure tubing junctions with tape to prevent accidental disconnections - While securing tubing is important, clamping the tube in case of interruption is more critical. C: Set wall suction at the level recommended by the device manufacturer - This is important for proper functioning but not as crucial as having clamps ready for emergencies.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: C is correct because it encourages genetic testing for both the client and their partner to assess the risk of passing on the cystic fibrosis gene. This approach provides the necessary information for informed decision-making regarding family planning. A is incorrect because being a carrier does not guarantee that the children will also be carriers. B is incorrect as it inaccurately states that if the client is a carrier, their children will have the disorder. D is incorrect because it oversimplifies the etiology of cystic fibrosis and suggests dietary adjustments as a solution, which is not effective in managing the genetic condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Would you like information about advance directives? This is the appropriate response as it addresses the client's concerns about becoming a vegetable and explores their wishes for end-of-life care. Advance directives can help the client make decisions about their care in case they are unable to communicate in the future. The other choices are incorrect because B assumes the client needs psychiatric evaluation, C suggests removing them from the transplant list without exploring their concerns further, and D focuses on spiritual support rather than addressing the client's specific worries about their quality of life post-transplant.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because assessing the client's ability to walk upstairs without fatigue helps determine the extent of heart failure. This question assesses the client's functional capacity and exercise tolerance, which are key indicators of heart failure severity. If the client experiences fatigue while walking upstairs, it indicates decreased cardiac output and potential heart failure progression. Other choices are incorrect as they focus on symptoms (A), nocturnal dyspnea (C), and peripheral edema (D), which may be present in heart failure but do not directly assess the extent of heart failure like exercise tolerance does.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates active listening and empathy, encouraging the client to express their feelings further. This response shows support and openness to discuss sensitive topics, promoting therapeutic communication. Choice B fails to address the client's emotional distress directly. Choice C may invalidate the client's feelings. Choice D may not be appropriate unless the client expresses interest in meeting with the chaplain. Overall, option A is the best response for addressing the client's emotional needs effectively.