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What is thoracentesis?Thoracentesis (say "thor-uh-sen-TEE-sis") is a procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This is called the pleural space. The procedure may also be called a "chest tap." It is normal to have a small amount of fluid in the pleural space. Too much fluid can build up because of problems such as infection, heart failure, and lung cancer. The procedure may be done to help with shortness of breath and pain caused by the fluid buildup, or you may have it done so the doctor can test the fluid to find the cause of the buildup. Your doctor will put a long, thin needle or a thin plastic tube, called a catheter, between two of your ribs. The doctor will use the needle or catheter to take fluid out. You may get medicine before the procedure. This helps with pain and helps you relax. The procedure will take about 15 minutes. Most people go home shortly after. You can go back to work or your normal activities as soon as you feel up to it. If the doctor sends the fluid to a lab for testing, it usually takes a few hours to get the results. Some of the test results may take a few days. The doctor or nurse will discuss the results with you. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. How do you prepare for the procedure?Preparing for the procedure
Taking care of yourself before the procedureBuild healthy habits into your life. Changes are best made several weeks before the procedure, since your body may react to sudden changes in your habits.
If you have an advance care plan, let your doctor know. If you do not have one, you may want to prepare one so your doctor and loved ones know your health care wishes. Doctors recommend that everyone prepare these papers before a procedure, regardless of the type of procedure or condition. Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect and it will help you safely prepare for your procedure. What happens on the day of the procedure?
At the hospital, surgery centre, or doctor's office
When should you call your doctor?
Where can you learn more?Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd Enter U836 in the search box to learn more about "Thoracentesis: Before Your Procedure". What is the best position for the nurse to place a client for a thoracentesis of the right lung?Positioning for Thoracentesis
Best done with the patient sitting upright and leaning slightly forward with arms supported. Recumbent or supine thoracentesis (eg, in a ventilated patient) is possible but best done using ultrasonography or CT to guide procedure.
Which actions will the nurse take to prepare a patient for a pulmonary function test?To prepare for your pulmonary function test, follow these instructions:. No bronchodilator medication for four hours.. No smoking for four hours before the test.. No heavy meals.. Do not wear any tight clothing.. The complete pulmonary function test takes around one and a half hours.. In which position should the client be placed for a thoracentesis?You will be in a sitting position in a hospital bed. Your arms will be resting on an over-bed table. This position helps to spread out the spaces between the ribs, where the needle is inserted. If you are not able to sit, you may lie on your side on the edge of the bed.
Which procedure would the nurse anticipate preparing for the client who Developeds a large pleural effusion?Thoracentesis is a diagnostic procedure done in patients who have abnormal amounts of fluid accumulation in the pleural space.
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