Thoracentesis in Children: What to Expect at Home

Thoracentesis (say "thor-uh-sen-TEE-sis") is a procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural space). It's normal to have a small amount of fluid in the pleural space. But too much fluid can build up because of problems such as infection or inflammation of the tissues around the lungs. The procedure may have been done to help with shortness of breath and pain caused by the fluid buildup. Or your child may have had this procedure so the doctor could test the fluid to find the cause of the buildup.

If a large amount of pleural fluid was removed during the procedure, your child will probably be able to breathe more easily.

Your child's chest may be sore where the doctor put the needle or catheter into the skin (the puncture site). This usually gets better after a day or two. Your child can go back to normal activities as soon as it feels okay to do so.

If more pleural fluid collects and needs to be removed, another thoracentesis may be done later.

• Have your child rest when your child feels tired.
• Allow your child's body to heal. Don't let your child move quickly or lift anything heavy until your child is feeling better.
• Your child may shower. Your child should not swim or take a bath until the puncture site has healed, or until the doctor tells you it is okay.
• Many children are able to return to normal activities within 1 or 2 days after the procedure.

• Your child can eat a normal diet.
• Your child should drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor tells your child not to).

• Your doctor will tell you if and when your child can restart any medicines. The doctor will also give you instructions about your child taking any new medicines.
• If your child stopped taking aspirin or some other blood thinner, your doctor will tell you when to have your child start taking it again.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Store your child's prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, give them as directed. Do not stop giving them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.

• Gently wash the area daily with warm, soapy water, and pat it dry. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing. You may cover the area with a gauze bandage if it oozes fluid or rubs against clothing. Change the bandage every day.
• Keep the area clean and dry.