Thoracentesis QI Study

Thoracentesis Quality Improvement (QI) Study

Researchers will compare 3 standard of care methods of pleural fluid drainage during therapeutic thoracentesis. Patients are randomized to manual aspiration, vacuum bottle drainage or wall suction methods. Primary outcome is procedural time with secondary outcomes of pain and dyspnea scores.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age >18
• Evidence of pleural effusion on imaging
• Clinical indication for thoracentesis

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age <18
• Standard contraindication for thoracentesis procedure
• Patients on positive pressure ventilation
• Patients who have opted out of research in EPIC