Breathe Easy in 2026: Ace Your Registered Nurse Respiratory Exam with Confidence!

The immediate nursing intervention when a chest tube becomes dislodged is to place a sterile dressing over the site and tape it on three sides and notify the physician. This action serves to minimize air entry into the pleural space, helping to prevent a pneumothorax or worsening of an existing one. By covering the site with a sterile dressing, you create a makeshift seal that allows for some air to escape but prevents additional air from entering, which is crucial for maintaining intrathoracic pressure.

Additionally, notifying the physician is essential for timely management and intervention, as the dislodged chest tube may require re-insertion or other medical actions. Prompt action and communication are vital in situations where respiratory issues are involved, as they can rapidly lead to increased respiratory distress for the patient.