Question

a nurse is caring for a client who has a chest tube in place. which of the following strategies should the nurse use to help promote comfort for the client? have the client splint the affected side during coughing. perform passive range - of - motion exercises. place the client in a supine position with minimal elevation. encourage ambulation.

Explanation:

Splinting the affected side during coughing helps reduce pain and discomfort for a client with a chest - tube by supporting the chest wall and minimizing movement that could irritate the insertion site. Passive range - of - motion exercises are not directly related to comfort for chest - tube clients. Placing the client in a supine position with minimal elevation may not be the most comfortable or beneficial position as it can increase pressure on the chest. Encouraging ambulation may be beneficial long - term but is not the most immediate comfort measure.

Answer:

Have the client splint the affected side during coughing.