Severe coughing and shortness of breath during a thoracentesis are indicative of what complication?
A) Re-expansion pulmonary edema
B) Pleural infection
C) Pneumothorax
D) Hemothorax

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Re-expansion pulmonary edema can occur when a large amount of effusion fluid (~1000 to 1500 mL)is removed from the pleural space.Removal of the fluid increases the negative intrapleural pressure,which can lead to edema when the lung does not re-expand to fill the space.The patient experiences severe coughing and shortness of breath.The onset of these symptoms is an indication to discontinue the thoracentesis.

Severe Coughing and Shortness of Breath During a Thoracentesis Are