The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) who is having a thoracentesis performed to relieve breathing difficulty. For which rare, but serious, complication should the nurse monitor the client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pneumothorax is a potential complication of thoracentesis, where air can enter the pleural space, causing lung collapse and leading to breathing difficulties. This is a direct risk associated with the procedure of penetrating the chest wall.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Diagnosed with Tuberculosis