A patient has a pleural effusion related to her pneumonia. Which of the following should the respiratory therapist recommend to treat the pleural effusion?

a. Hyperinflation therapy
b. Supplemental oxygen
c. Thoracentesis
d. Percussion and postural drainage


C
The thoracentesis procedure involves placing a needle through the chest wall to withdraw the pleural effusion fluid. This allows the lung to reexpand. Although the other listed options may be used in the care of a patient with pneumonia, they will not help to remove the pleural fluid.

Health Professions

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