What should a nurse do if a client has continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber of a chest tube?

Reporting continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber is critical because it indicates a potential air leak in the system, which could compromise the patient's respiratory status. The water seal chamber is designed to prevent air from entering the pleural space while allowing the escape of air and fluid from the chest cavity. Continuous bubbling suggests that air is escaping from somewhere, which could indicate that the chest tube is not functioning properly, leading to inadequate lung re-expansion or risk of further complications.

Taking prompt action to report this issue allows for timely assessment by the healthcare provider, who can then determine the appropriate interventions. This is crucial in ensuring the ongoing safety and management of the patient's chest tube and overall respiratory health.