The nurse is caring for a client with a pleural effusion who is scheduled for a thoracentesis. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement prior to the procedure?
A)Start a peripheral intravenous line to administer the necessary sedative drugs.
B)Position the client sitting upright on the edge of the bed and leaning forward.
C)Remove the water pitcher and remind the client not to eat or drink anything for 6 hours.
D)Instruct the client about the importance of incentive spirometer use after the procedure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the client is sitting up, fluid accumulates in the pleural space at the lung bases and can more easily be located and removed. The lung will expand after the effusion is removed; incentive spirometry is not needed to assure alveolar expansion. The client does not usually require sedation for the procedure, and there are no restrictions on oral intake because the client is not sedated or unconscious.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a Pleural