Question

A nurse is assisting the provider who is performing a thoracentesis at the bedside of a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

A) Administer pain medication before the procedure
B) Position the client upright and leaning over a bedside table
C) Instruct the client to take deep breaths during the procedure
D) Ensure that the client empties their bladder before the procedure

Answer 1

When assisting with a thoracentesis, the nurse should administer pain medication, position the client upright, and instruct them to take deep breaths during the procedure.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assisting the provider with a thoracentesis, there are several actions that the nurse should take:

1. Administer pain medication before the procedure to help manage the client's discomfort.
2. Position the client upright and have them lean over a bedside table. This position helps to maximize lung expansion and facilitates the procedure.
3. Instruct the client to take deep breaths during the procedure. Deep breathing helps with lung expansion and can reduce the risk of complications.

Emptying the client's bladder before the procedure is not necessary for a thoracentesis.