A patient presents moderately short of breath and dyspneic.A chest radiographic examination reveals a large right pleural effusion with significant atelectasis.The physician or nurse practitioner would be most likely to order which of the following procedures?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Thoracentesis is a procedure that can be performed at the bedside for the removal of fluid or air from the pleural space.It is used most often as a diagnostic measure; it may also be performed therapeutically for the drainage of a pleural effusion or empyema.No evidence is present that would necessitate a V/Q scan.A bronchoscopy cannot assist in fluid removal.A problem with this chest radiograph is not indicated.

A Patient Presents Moderately Short of Breath and Dyspneic