Question

a nurse is assisting a provider with performing a paracentesis on a client. which of the following actions should the nurse take? a. ask the client to empty his bladder before the procedure b. place the client leaning forward over the bedside table for the procedure c. inform the client he will be sedated during the procedure d. instruct the client to fast for 6 hours prior to the procedure

Explanation:

• Option A: Emptying the bladder reduces the risk of accidental bladder puncture during paracentesis, as the bladder lies adjacent to the abdominal cavity accessed in this procedure.
• Option B: The correct position for paracentesis is typically supine with the head elevated, not leaning forward (this position is used for thoracentesis).
• Option C: Sedation is not standard for paracentesis; local anesthesia to the site is the norm.
• Option D: Fasting is not required for this procedure, as it does not involve the gastrointestinal tract in a way that necessitates an empty stomach.

Answer:

A. Ask the client to empty his bladder before the procedure