A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is about to undergo a thoracentesis. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the information?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "I will have general anesthesia during the procedure.": Thoracentesis is performed using local anesthesia to numb the puncture site, not general anesthesia. Local anesthesia allows the client to remain awake, follow breathing instructions, and reduce procedural risk associated with systemic sedation. General anesthesia is unnecessary and increases potential complications. B. "I will lie flat for 6 hours following the procedure.": After a thoracentesis, clients are generally encouraged to resume normal positioning as tolerated, often sitting upright or semi-Fowler’s position. Prolonged flat positioning is not required and does not prevent complications. Monitoring focuses on respiratory status and observing for pneumothorax. C. "I will have a chest x-ray following the procedure.": A post-procedure chest x-ray is standard to confirm lung re-expansion and to check for complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. This imaging ensures that the lung has not been punctured or collapsed during fluid removal, and it guides further management if abnormalities are detected. D. "I will breathe deeply through my nose during the procedure.": Clients are usually instructed to sit upright and remain still, with occasional breath-holding at end-inspiration during needle insertion. Breathing deeply through the nose is not a standard instruction and may increase movement, risking needle trauma to lung tissue.