Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 68%
Full-length
The nurse is assisting a primary health care provider with abdominal paracentesis. What position should the nurse assist the client into for this procedure?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
For abdominal paracentesis, the nurse should position the client in either a semi-Fowler's position or an upright position on the edge of the bed with the feet resting on a stool and the back well supported. This position allows the intestine to float posteriorly and helps prevent laceration during catheter insertion. None of the remaining options suggest the correct position.