A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to undergo thoracentesis. In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client for the procedure?

A. Facial flushing

Facial flushing is not typically associated with atelectasis. Instead, it may occur in conditions such as oxygen toxicity or fever.

B. Increasing dyspnea

Atelectasis is a condition characterized by the collapse or partial collapse of a portion of the lung. Common findings in a client with atelectasis include increasing dyspnea (shortness of breath) due to impaired gas exchange and reduced lung function. As the affected lung tissue collapses, ventilation and oxygenation are compromised, leading to difficulty breathing.

C. Decreasing respiratory rate

A decreasing respiratory rate is not typically observed in a client with atelectasis. Instead, respiratory rate may increase as the body attempts to compensate for the impaired gas exchange and oxygenation resulting from lung collapse.

D. Dry cough

While coughing is a common symptom of atelectasis, it is typically associated with a productive cough rather than a dry cough. A dry cough is more commonly associated with conditions such as viral respiratory infections or allergic reactions. In atelectasis, the cough may be productive as the body attempts to clear mucus or other secretions from the affected airways.

A. Prone with arms raised over the head.

This position involves lying face down with the arms raised over the head. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide easy access to the thoracic cavity, and it may compress the chest, making it difficult for the client to breathe comfortably during the procedure.

B. Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.

This is the correct choice. For thoracentesis, the client should be positioned sitting upright and leaning forward over the bedside table or supported by pillows. This position allows better access to the thoracic cavity and facilitates the removal of pleural fluid. Leaning forward also helps to open up the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the appropriate space between the ribs.

C. High Fowler's position.

The High Fowler's position involves the client sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated at a 90-degree angle. While this position may be used for other respiratory procedures or for comfort, it is not the optimal position for thoracentesis. It does not provide the same degree of access to the thoracic cavity as the sitting position with forward leaning.

D. Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.

This position involves lying on one side with the knees drawn up to the chest. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide access to the thoracic cavity, and it may obstruct the procedure. Additionally, this position may not be comfortable for the client during the procedure.