Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Respiratory System Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Respiratory System related questions and content

What would the instructor tell the students purulent fluid indicates?

  • A. Cancer
  • B. Infection
  • C. Inflammation
  • D. Heart failure
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A small amount of fluid lies between the visceral and parietal pleurae. When excess fluid or air accumulates, the physician aspirates it from the pleural space by inserting a needle into the chest wall. This procedure, called thoracentesis, is performed with local anesthesia. Thoracentesis also may be used to obtain a sample of pleural fluid or a biopsy specimen from the pleural wall for diagnostic purposes such as a culture, sensitivity, or microscopic examination. Purulent fluid is the recommended diagnosis for infection. Serous fluid may be associated with cancer, inflammatory conditions, or heart failure.