A patient has a pleural effusion related to her pneumonia. What can be used to help treat it?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Thoracentesis is the removal of fluid from the pleural space and is typically done for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. In this case, it would be done to alleviate the pressure and symptoms caused by the pleural effusion. Hyperinflation therapy and percussion/postural drainage are not indicated for pleural effusions, and supplemental oxygen may provide some relief of symptoms but would not treat the underlying effusion.

A Patient Has a Pleural Effusion Related to Her Pneumonia