PLEURAL EFFUSION

WATER ON THELUNGS
Case Presentation by Reniel Laylay
OVERVIEW
Pleural effusion, sometimes referred to as “water on
lungs”, is the accumulation of fluid between the
parietal and visceral pleura, called the pleural cavity. It
can occur by itself or can be the result of surrounding
parenchymal diseases like infection, malignancy, or
inflammatory conditions, It is one of the most major
causes of pulmonary mortality and morbidity.
 CAUSES
THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF PLEURAL EFFUSION:

CHF
CANCER
PNEUMONIA
PULMONARY
EMBOLISM
 2 TYPES OF PLEURAL
EFFUSION
Transductive PE - caused by fluid leaking into the pleural
space.
Exudative Effusion - caused by blocked blood vessels on
lymph vessels. inflammation, infection, lung injury, or
tumors.
 RISK FACTORS
Smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can cause heart, lung, and liver
disease, which can lead to pleural effusion.
History of any contact with asbestos (naturally occurring fibrous materials
that are resistant to heat and corrosion.)
Asbestos increases the risk of several serious diseases including asbestosis,
mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Chest pain
Coughs
Fever and chills
Hiccups
Rapid breathing
Shortness of breath
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
Antibiotics if there is an
infection. Steroids and
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs to relieve pain and
reduce inflammation or
swelling.
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
VATS - Also known as thoracoscopic
surgery, this procedure is effective in
managing pleural effusions that are
difficult to drain or recur due to
malignancy. Sterile talc or an antibiotic
may be inserted at the time of surgery to
prevent the recurrence of fluid build-up.
NURSING MANAGEMENT

Proper positioning.
Provide supplemental oxygen as ordered.
Encourage ambulation.
Provide support to reduce anxiety.