Identify the procedure shown in the image:

Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

The image clearly shows a multi-chambered drainage unit connected by tubing to a patient's chest, which is characteristic of a water seal drainage system.
This system is designed for continuous drainage of air or fluid from the pleural space to help re-expand a collapsed lung.
The key components visible or implied are the collection chamber, the water seal chamber (which acts as a one-way valve), and a suction control mechanism, all hallmarks of this system.

Option B: Thoracocentesis is an intermittent procedure using a needle and syringe to aspirate fluid from the pleural space. The image shows a continuous, closed drainage system, not a needle aspiration setup.
Option C: Catheterization typically refers to urinary catheterization for draining the bladder. The equipment and anatomical location in the image are related to the chest, not the urinary system.
Option D: Bronchoalveolar lavage is an endoscopic procedure where fluid is instilled and suctioned from the lungs via a bronchoscope. The image does not show a bronchoscope or the internal airways.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of chest drainage systems as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are responsible for managing patients with chest tubes, which includes monitoring drainage amount and color, assessing for air leaks (bubbling), checking for tidaling, and ensuring the system remains below the chest level to prevent backflow.
A key safety measure is to always have sterile water, gauze, and clamps at the bedside in case the tube becomes dislodged or the system breaks.
What if? If the water seal chamber shows continuous, vigorous bubbling, it indicates a significant air leak in the system or from the patient. The nurse's first action is to assess the system for loose connections, starting from the patient and moving towards the drainage unit. If no leak is found in the tubing, it signifies a persistent air leak from the lung, which must be reported.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully analyze the image provided. Identify the key pieces of equipment and their connection to the patient (mannequin).
Note the tubing originating from the chest area and connecting to a multi-chambered device on the floor. This is a critical visual clue.
Recognize the device as a chest drainage unit (e.g., Pleur-evac).
Evaluate the given options based on your visual identification. 'Water seal drainage system' accurately describes the entire apparatus shown.
Eliminate the other options by considering their definitions: Thoracocentesis (needle aspiration), Catheterization (usually urinary), and Bronchoalveolar lavage (endoscopic lung wash). None of these match the visual evidence.
Confirm your choice by recalling that the purpose of this system is to drain the pleural space, which aligns with the function of a water seal drainage system.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QeIoQDrawH5EEE52G3nH7A

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 5 pp. 2-4, 33-35