Fluid from a thoracentesis is grossly purulent. The effusion from which this fluid was aspirated is best described as a(n):
- loculated effusion
- chylothorax
- empyema
- hydrothorax
- hemothorax
Answer: C
Empyema
A grossly purulent tap would suggest staph (empyema). Loculated effusion does not describe either a trans or exudative effusion. Chylo and hydrothorax suggest a transudative effusion (nonpurulent). And hemothorax is blood
Pleural effusion is covered in the NCCPA Content Blueprint Pulmonary (12%)
A 68-year-old with 6 months bilateral chest pain and difficulty breathing (watch video)
Learn more about the NCCPA content blueprint topic pleural diseases (pearls), read up on pleural effusions, take the lesson quiz and review Smarty PANCE Pleural Effusion.
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If you are studying for the PANCE or the PANRE I recommend these review books