When preparing the patient with a right-sided pleural effusion for a thoracentesis, how will the nurse position the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The upright position with the arms supported increases lung expansion, allows fluid to collect at the lung bases, and expands the intercostal space so that access to the pleural space is easier. The other positions would increase the work of breathing for the patient and make it more difficult for the health care provider performing the thoracentesis.

When Preparing the Patient with a Right-Sided Pleural Effusion for a Thoracentesis