Overview
Clinical Meaning
Pleural effusion results from imbalance in Starling forces or lymphatic drainage.
AGPCNP
AGPCNP
Pleural effusion results from imbalance in Starling forces or lymphatic drainage. Light criteria differentiate transudative (CHF, cirrhosis, nephrotic) from exudative (infection, malignancy, PE): exudative if any of protein ratio >0.5, LDH ratio >0.6, or LDH >2/3 upper normal. Diagnostic thoracentesis for all new effusions unless bilateral and clinical CHF. Connect Pleural Effusion to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. NCLEX items often reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.
Unlock full lesson + practice questions
4 more sections with scenarios, priorities, and review drills.
Final rapid review before practice
Next study step
Finish the lesson first, then choose a focused activity to apply what you just reviewed.
Continue studying
Sign in to save progress on this lesson.
Unlock the interactive lesson quiz with a plan that includes this AGPCNP pathway. You can still explore topic-filtered questions from the bank hubs below.