Pleural Effusion
Pleural Effusion is excess fluid that accumulates in the pleura, the fluid-filled space that surrounds the lungs. Excessive amounts of such fluid can impair breathing by limiting the expansion of the lungs during respiration.
Types of fluids
Four types of fluids can accumulate in the pleural space:
- Serous fluid (hydrothorax)
- Blood (haemothorax)
- Chyle (chylothorax)
- Pus (pyothorax or empyema)
Nursing Diagnosis for Pleural Effusion
- Ineffective breathing pattern related to decreased lung expansion secondary to accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity (Susan Martin Tucleer, et al, 1998).
- Imbalanced Nutrition : Less Than Body Requirements related to an increased metabolism, decreased appetite due to shortness of breath secondary to suppression abdominal structures (Barbara Engram, 1993).
- Anxiety related to the threat of death imaginable (inability to breathe).
- Sleep pattern disturbance related to a persistent cough and shortness of breath and change of atmosphere.
- Self-care deficit related to fatigue (physical state of the weak)
- Deficient Knowledge about conditions, treatment of the rules related to less exposure to information.