What is the appropriate action for a nurse to take regarding a chest tube connected to a closed drainage system?

Maintaining the drainage system below the level of the client's chest is crucial for proper functioning of a closed drainage system connected to a chest tube. This positioning uses gravity to facilitate drainage of pleural fluid or air from the pleural space. When the drainage system is placed above the level of the chest, it can lead to backflow and potentially allow fluid or air to return to the pleural cavity, which could compromise the effectiveness of the treatment and lead to complications. Therefore, keeping the drainage system lower than the chest helps ensure that any fluid or air can flow downward into the collection chamber, promoting effective drainage and reducing the risk of a collection of pressures that could lead to respiratory distress or complications.