Paracentesis vs thoracentesis

Question 1

Thoracentesis

Answer 1

• refers to the removal of fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall, called the pleural cavity.
• informed consent is required
• remain still, feeling of pressure, position upright and sit leaning forward
• max amount of fluid at one time is 1L
• chest tube at bedside in case of pneumothorax
• obtain chest x ray before and after

Question 2

Paracentesis

Answer 2

• refers to removing fluid from the abdominal cavity.
• empty bladder before procedure
• position upright
• administer mild sedation
• administer prescribed IV fluids or albumin to restore fluid balance
• max 4-6L of fluids are drained from abdomen
• record weight before and after
• measure abdominal girth before and after
• assess albumin, amylase, protein, BUN, and creatinine before and after prpcedure