What is the appropriate position for a client scheduled for a thoracentesis?

The appropriate position for a client scheduled for a thoracentesis is to be upright, leaning over the bedside table. This position facilitates optimal access to the pleural space, allowing the healthcare provider to safely insert the needle into the chest cavity. By leaning forward, the client helps to expand the lung and creates more space in the thoracic cavity, which is essential for decreasing the risk of complications and improving the likelihood of a successful procedure.

Additionally, this upright position with support not only enables the provider to obtain fluid or perform a biopsy more effectively but also promotes comfort and minimizes anxiety for the patient. It allows for better lung expansion and can help prevent coughing or the urge to move during the procedure, which is crucial since any sudden movements could complicate the process.