Discharge Instructions for Thoracentesis

Home care

• You may have some pain after the procedure. Your doctor may prescribe pain medicine, if needed. Take these exactly as directed.

• If you stopped taking other medicines before the procedure, ask your doctor when you can start them again.

• Take it easy for 48 hours after the procedure. Don't do anything active until your doctor says it’s okay.

• Don't do strenuous activities, such as lifting, until your doctor says it’s okay.

• Don't travel in an airplane until your doctor says it's okay to do so.

• You will have a small bandage over the puncture site. You may remove the bandage in 24 hours, or when your doctor says it's okay.

• Check the puncture site for the signs of infection listed below.

Follow-up

Make a follow-up appointment with your doctor as directed. During your follow-up visit, your doctor will check your healing. Be sure to let your doctor know how you are feeling.

When to contact your doctor

Contact your doctor right away if you have:

• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed.

• Pain that doesn't get better after taking pain medicine.

• Signs of infection at the puncture site. These include increased pain, redness, warmth, swelling, or fluid leaking that is green or yellow or smells bad.

• Fluid draining from the puncture site.

• Bleeding from the puncture site.

When to call 911

Call 911 or get care at the nearest emergency department if you have:

• Chest pain that is unusual or suddenly gets worse.

• Shortness of breath.

• Coughing up blood.