Self-Assessment Questions

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a contraindication to performing thoracentesis?

	a. Herpes zoster over the proposed injection site
	b. Dyspnea due to a large pleural effusion in a palliative lung cancer patient
	c. Severe hemodynamic compromise
	d. Uncontrolled bleeding

Question 2

Thoracentesis is best performed by only one person, to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries in staff other than the operant.

True False

Question 3

Which of the following statements are FALSE with respect to performing thoracentesis?

	a. The patient should be positioned sitting at the edge of the bed, leaning forward, with their arms resting on a table
	b. Once the level of effusion is determined by clinical exam, the site of needle entry should be 1 to 2 intercostal spaces below the level of effusion
	c. The needle should be inserted along the superior edge of the rib in order to avoid injury to the intercostal vessels and nerve
	d. The needle may be inserted at any level along the hemithorax midline

Question 4

Based on the figure below, choose the correct statement.

	a. The stopcock is open to the patient and the extra hub on the stopcock
	b. The stopcock is closed to the syringe
	c. The stopcock is closed to the patient
	d. The stopcock is open to the patient and the syringe

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a potential complication of thoracentesis?

	a. Hemothorax
	b. Localized infection at the injection site
	c. Post-expansion pulmonary edema
	d. Pneumothorax
	e. All of the above are potential complications of thoracentesis