Thoracentesis Procedure

1. Fluid
2. Lung Tip
3. Diaphragm

You must identify any fluid, the diaphragm, and the lung to select the level of needle insertion.

• The lung is seen as an echogenic structure moving with respiration.
• Identify the most inferior fluid pocket while avoiding the liver, solid organ, and diaphragm.
• Measure to determine appropriate needle depth.