The postoperative cardiac surgery client has an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space 2 weeks after surgery.Which term will the nurse use to explain this condition to the client and family?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A pleural effusion is an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, which can occur after cardiac surgery due to factors such as inflammation or fluid shifts. Pneumothorax and hemothorax involve air and blood respectively in the pleural space, which is not the case in this scenario. Pulmonary edema is fluid accumulation in the lungs, rather than the pleural space.

The Postoperative Cardiac Surgery Client Has an Accumulation of Fluid