Question

The client is scheduled for a pericentesis. Which instruction should be given to the client before the exam? A. "You will need to lay flat during the exam." B. "You need to empty your bladder before the procedure." C. "You will be asleep during the procedure." D. "The doctor will inject a medication to treat your illness during the procedure."

Short answer

Answer: The client needs to empty their bladder before the procedure.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding pericentesis

Pericentesis, also known as paracentesis, is a procedure in which a needle or catheter is inserted into the peritoneal cavity to remove fluid (ascites) that has accumulated there. In order to find the correct answer, it is essential to understand what the procedure entails and what the patient should expect.

Analyzing option A

"You will need to lay flat during the exam." In a pericentesis procedure, the client usually lies on their back with one of their legs slightly bent. While it is true that the client will need to lay in a flat position, this is a general and not specific instruction for many medical procedures, making it unlikely to be the most significant or relevant pre-procedure advice.

Analyzing option B

"You need to empty your bladder before the procedure." Emptying the bladder prior to the procedure can help reduce the risk of bladder injury during pericentesis. Since the needle will be inserted into the peritoneal cavity, having an empty bladder will allow the healthcare provider to more accurately locate and safely access the fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Analyzing option C

"You will be asleep during the procedure." Pericentesis is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means the client will be awake but not feel any pain in the area being treated. Thus, this statement is incorrect, as the client will not be asleep during the procedure.

Analyzing option D

"The doctor will inject a medication to treat your illness during the procedure." Pericentesis is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure meant to remove excess fluid from the peritoneal cavity, but it does not involve injecting medication directly into the patient. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

Choosing the correct answer

Based on the analysis of all the given options, option B, "You need to empty your bladder before the procedure," is the most relevant and accurate instruction that should be given to the client before a pericentesis exam.

Key concepts

Patient Instructions

When preparing a patient for a pericentesis, clear instructions are vital to ensure understanding and cooperation. Patients should always be informed about what the procedure entails and how they can aid in its success. For a pericentesis:

• Ask patients to empty their bladder. This is crucial as it helps minimize the risk of puncturing or injuring the bladder during the needle insertion process.
• Explain that they will likely be awake during the procedure, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area.
• Ensure they understand the purpose of the procedure, which is fluid removal for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons, not for medication administration.

These instructions are designed to prepare the patient both physically and mentally for what is to come, helping create a better understanding and reducing anxiety.

Procedure Preparation

Proper preparation for a pericentesis is crucial to ensure the procedure's safety and success. The healthcare provider should:

• Confirm the patient has emptied their bladder to create a safer environment for the needle or catheter insertion.
• Position the patient correctly, typically lying flat or slightly propped with a pillow, and one leg may be bent if encouraged, to optimize access to the peritoneal cavity.
• Review the patient's medical history to identify any potential complications, such as bleeding disorders that might need to be addressed to minimize risks.

Preparing for a pericentesis involves teamwork between the patient and the healthcare team, emphasizing safety and efficiency.

Medical Procedures

A pericentesis is a medical procedure primarily used to remove fluid buildup, known as ascites, from the peritoneal cavity. It serves two main purposes:

• Diagnostic: Analyzing the removed fluid can help identify infections, cancer, or other conditions affecting abdominal organs.
• Therapeutic: Relieving pressure from excess fluid helps alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and difficulty breathing.

The procedure involves: disinfecting the insertion area, numbing it with local anesthesia, and safely withdrawing the fluid with a needle or catheter. Patients are typically awake but comfortable during the procedure. Understanding the purpose enables healthcare providers and patients alike to focus on the benefits and expected outcomes of the pericentesis.

Nursing Education

For nurses involved in pericentesis, education focuses on both technical skills and patient interaction. Nurses need to:

• Understand the sterile techniques required to prevent infections during the procedure.
• Be equipped to assist the physician, handling instruments, and managing samples correctly for laboratory analysis.
• Communicate effectively with patients, explaining the steps and addressing their concerns to increase their comfort and cooperation.
• Monitor the patient for any adverse reactions, such as dizziness or discomfort, providing support as needed.

Educating nurses in these areas ensures that they contribute to a smooth, safe, and efficient pericentesis procedure, while also advocating for patient understanding and comfort.