What procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural space to remove excess fluid and help the patient breathe more easily?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Thoracentesis. This procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural space to drain excess fluid, which can accumulate due to conditions like pleural effusion or pneumonia, helping the patient breathe easier. It's performed under ultrasound guidance, ensuring precise fluid removal without damaging nearby structures. Thoracentesis is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, providing fluid for analysis and relieving symptoms of dyspnea.
Summary:
B: Bronchoscopy is a procedure to visualize the airways using a thin, flexible tube and is not used for draining pleural fluid.
C: Spirometry is a lung function test measuring airflow and is not a procedure for removing pleural fluid.
D: Arterial blood gas (ABG) is a blood test to assess oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood and is not related to removing pleural fluid.