The Nurse Role in the Care of the Patient with a Pleural Effusion

The nurse role in the care of the patient with a pleural effusion includes:

• Implementing the medical regimen.
• The nurse prepares and positions the patient for thoracentesis and offers support throughout the procedure.
• Pain management is a priority, and the nurse assists the patient to assume positions that are the least painful.
• Frequent turning and ambulation are important to facilitate drainage the nurse administers analgesics as prescribed and as needed.
• If chest tube drainage and a water-seal system is used, the nurse is responsible for monitoring the system’s function and recording the amount of drainage at prescribed intervals.
• If a patient is to be managed as an outpatient with a pleural catheter for drainage, the nurse is responsible for educating the patient and family regarding management and care of the catheter and drainage system.