What should a nurse avoid doing with a chest tube during ambulation?

Clamping the chest tube during ambulation can lead to serious complications, including the risk of a tension pneumothorax. When a chest tube is clamped, it can cause trapped air or fluid in the pleural space to accumulate, leading to increased pressure and diminished lung expansion. The purpose of a chest tube is to allow for the continuous drainage of air or fluid from the pleural space, which is essential to maintain appropriate intrathoracic pressure and facilitate lung re-expansion. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to keep the chest tube unclamped during ambulation to prevent any risk to the patient’s respiratory status and to ensure the chest tube functions effectively. Keeping the chest tube patent is vital for patient safety and optimal recovery.