A client is scheduled for a thoracentesis that will be done at the bedside. What should the practical nurse (PN) prepare before the healthcare provider arrives to perform the procedure?
A.
Gather the procedure tray and equipment.
B.
Cleanse the site and cover with a sterile towel.
C.
Keep the patient NPO (nothing by mouth) and encourage them to void.
D.
Place the patient in an orthopneic position.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. Gather the procedure tray and equipment.
Explanation:
A thoracentesis is a procedure where a healthcare provider removes fluid or air from the pleural space around the lungs. This can be done to diagnose a condition or relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation (pleural effusion).
In preparation for the procedure, the practical nurse (PN) plays a key role. Gathering the correct equipment and ensuring that the necessary items are readily available for the healthcare provider is critical for a smooth and efficient procedure.
Here’s why A. Gather the procedure tray and equipment is the correct answer:
- Procedure tray: Thoracentesis requires specific instruments such as syringes, sterile gloves, drapes, antiseptic solution, needles, and tubing. The PN ensures these are available and organized.
- Additional equipment: This may include ultrasound guidance equipment if necessary, collection containers for fluid, and a sterile dressing to cover the puncture site afterward.
Explanation of other options:
- B. Cleanse the site and cover with a sterile towel: While sterile technique is critical, the cleansing of the site is typically done by the healthcare provider to maintain sterility. The PN’s role is to provide support, but they usually do not perform the cleansing unless instructed.
- C. Keep the patient NPO (nothing by mouth) and encourage them to void: NPO is unnecessary for thoracentesis, as it is a relatively short procedure done under local anesthesia. However, it may be beneficial for the patient to void beforehand, but this is not the most immediate priority.
- D. Place the patient in an orthopneic position: This is important, but positioning is often done just before the procedure. The primary task beforehand is ensuring all materials are available.