What is the nurses role during a paracentesis?

The removal of at least 5L of ascitic fluid is considered large-volume paracentesis. The role of the nurse is usually to monitor the patient throughout the procedure, administer treatment as directed by the medical team and, depending on local policy, remove the drain at the end of the procedure.

How do you do stomach paracentesis?

Procedure for ascitic tap (paracentesis)

1. Position the patient supine in the bed with their head resting on a pillow.
2. Select an appropriate point on the abdominal wall in the right or left lower quadrant, lateral to the rectus sheath.
3. Clean the site and surrounding area with 2% Chlorhexadine and apply a sterile drape.

What nursing considerations are needed for paracentesis?

Monitor your patient’s vital signs, including temperature, every 15 minutes for 1 to 2 hours after the procedure, or as directed. Measure his abdominal girth for comparison with the baseline measurement. Document the volume, color, and consistency of the fluid.

How often can a paracentesis be done?

In most cases, the paracentesis is done as an out-patient procedure. In situations where patients require large volume paracentesis more than once every two weeks, this would be an indication that they have developed refractory ascites .

What are the contraindications for paracentesis?

There are few absolute contraindications for paracentesis. Coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia (both very common in cirrhotic patients) are themselves not absolute contraindications as the incidence of bleeding complications from the paracentesis procedure has been shown to be very low.

What is the purpose of a paracentesis?

Paracentesis is a medical procedure to remove fluid that has collected in the abdomen, or belly. It can be done for several reasons, but mainly for a condition known as ascites , which specifically refers to abdominal fluid build-up. Other reasons for the procedure include testing, diagnosis,…

How long does a paracentesis procedure last?

Paracentesis procedures typically take 45-60 minutes, with an additional 30-60 minutes monitoring post-procedure. What happens during my procedure? You will be positioned on a cushioned table. The needle insertion site will be cleansed and draped with sterile towels. A numbing medicine will be applied to your abdomen.