Lack of Thoracentesis Competencies and Training in Danish Emergency Departments: A Danish Nationwide Study

Dyspnea caused by pleural effusion is a common reason for admission to the emergency department (ED). In such cases, thoracentesis performed in the ED may allow for swift symptom relief, diagnostics, and early patient discharge. However, the competence level of thoracentesis and training in the ED are currently unclear. This study aimed to describe the current competencies and training in thoracentesis in Danish EDs.

We performed a nationwide cross-sectional study in Denmark. A questionnaire was distributed to all EDs in March 2022 including questions on competencies and thoracentesis training methods. Descriptive statistics were used.

In total, 21 EDs replied (response rate 100%) between March and May 2022. Overall, 50% of consultant and 77% of physicians in emergency medicine specialist training were unable to perform thoracentesis independently. Only 2 of 21 EDs (10%) had a formalized training program. In these 2 EDs, there were no requirements of maintaining these competences. Informal training was reported by 14 out 21 (66%) EDs and consisted of ad-hoc bedside procedural demonstration and/or guidance. Among the 19 EDs without formalized training, 9 (47%) had no intention of establishing a formalized training program.

We found a major lack of thoracentesis competencies in Danish EDs among both consultant and physicians in emergency medicine specialist training. Moreover, the vast majority of EDs had no formalized thoracentesis training program.