5. Directly After the Procedure
The fluid that was removed will be sent off to the lab for testing. The puncture site will be dressed. This dressing will be checked regularly to see if there is any blood or other fluids draining from the site.
Some doctors will order a chest x-ray after the procedure to make sure that the lungs are okay. The chest x-ray will show if anything was punctured during the procedure and will also ensure that the chest cavity is functioning properly after the procedure has ended. Your breathing, pulse, and blood pressure will be closely monitored after the procedure to make sure that your body is still functioning properly after the procedure has been completed.
If this was an outpatient procedure you can expect to stay at the hospital or clinic for at least a couple of hours to make sure that you are okay to go home.