Thoracentesis
THORACENTESIS PROCEDURE NOTE INDICATION: Diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic treatment of a pleural effusion.
INFORMED CONSENT: The risks of the procedure including bleeding, pneumothorax, and infection were explained to the patient. The patient verbalized their understanding of the procedure, the risks, benefits and alternatives and wished to proceed.
PROCEDURE:
With the patient in a sitting position, leaning forward, appropriate landmarks were identified.
The skin was prepped and draped in sterile fashion.
3-5 mL of Local anesthetic was infiltrated in the area of the intercostal space on the LEFT side.
A catheter was then introduced through the intercostal space over the superior edge of the rib and the pleural space was entered.

Fluid was aspirated and sent to the lab for appropriate studies.

FINDINGS: Serosanguinous fluid. EBL: <10 mL COMPLICATIONS: None.

Labs: Body Fluid (Cell Count, Culture with Gram Stain, Protein, Glucose, LDH), Pathology Non-Gyn Cytology Request