A nurse is caring for a client who had a thoracentesis 2 hr ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Rationale: A. Crepitus at the puncture site: Crepitus, or the sensation of air under the skin, may indicate subcutaneous emphysema, which is a complication that can occur after thoracentesis. It is not a normal finding and should be reported immediately. B. Dry, nonproductive cough: A dry, nonproductive cough is not a typical finding immediately following thoracentesis. Coughing may be associated with post-procedure irritation but should not be expected as a common outcome. C. Increased lung expansion: Increased lung expansion is the desired outcome after thoracentesis. The procedure removes excess pleural fluid, allowing the lung to expand more fully. This is a positive result that should be expected as the client recovers. D. Rapid, shallow respirations: Rapid, shallow respirations can indicate respiratory distress, which could signal a complication such as pneumothorax. This is not an expected finding and requires immediate evaluation and intervention.