Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is one potential complication after a bedside thoracentesis?

1. Acute bleeding from the puncture site

2. Pneumothorax

3. Hemothorax

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

After performing a bedside thoracentesis, one potential complication that can arise is pneumothorax. This occurs when air is introduced into the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural cavity to remove fluid, and if the needle inadvertently punctures the lung, it can create a pathway for air to enter the pleural space. Additionally, acute bleeding from the puncture site can occur as a result of trauma to blood vessels during the procedure. This complication can lead to the formation of a hematoma at the site of the needle insertion. Hemothorax is another complication related to thoracentesis, resulting from blood accumulation in the pleural space, which can happen if a blood vessel is punctured during the procedure. Since all of these complications—acute bleeding, pneumothorax, and hemothorax—are potential risks following thoracentesis, it is important to monitor the patient closely for any signs of these issues post-procedure. Recognizing the risk factors and being prepared to manage these complications is a critical aspect of nursing care in this context.