Final answer:
After a thoracentesis, a nurse should expect a reduction in dyspnea, which is difficulty in breathing, a common symptom in patients with advanced lung cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to a nurse assessing a client with advanced lung cancer after undergoing a thoracentesis. A thoracentesis is a procedure that may be performed to remove excess fluid from the pleural space to help improve breathing and reduce discomfort caused by the fluid buildup. When a patient with lung cancer undergoes this procedure, the nurse should expect a reduction in dyspnea, which is difficulty or labored breathing—a common symptom of advanced lung cancer, as the excess pleural fluid is reduced, allowing better expansion of the lungs during breathing.