Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Assessment and management of patients with pleural effusion
1Nursing Development, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust, London.
Abstract:
Pleural effusions are a common medical condition with a significant source of morbidity, and there are wide variations in management. Over the past 5 years there has been rapid advancement in the knowledge and treatment of pleural diseases and effusions. This article provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the pleural space and pleural membranes, and an update on assessment and management of patients with pleural effusions in line with new developments and related national guidelines.
Related Concept Videos
Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed.
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management

