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NCLEX-RN

Category - Physiological

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A client with massive hemothorax after a blunt trauma to the chest is being treated in the emergency department. A thoracentesis was done successfully. After the procedure, which of the following unexpected outcomes would necessitate a thoracotomy?

RR= 28rpm
Pain at the puncture site
Chest tube output of 100ml/hour
Aspiration of 500ml during thoracentesis

Explanation

Answer: C - A thoracentesis output of a volume of 100-200ml per hour would require a thoracotomy. An emergency thoracotomy occurs when the aspirated blood reaches a total of 1500ml-2000ml. Pain at the puncture site is expected after thoracentesis. A respiratory rate of 28 rpm is within normal range. Thoracotomy is done by incising the left anterolateral side of the chest.

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