After a thoracentesis, the nurse should position the client on which side to facilitate lung expansion?

Following a thoracentesis, positioning the client on the unaffected side serves to promote lung expansion. After the procedure, blood and fluid are often removed from the pleural space, which helps in relieving pressure from the lung on that side. By lying on the unaffected side, gravity assists in keeping the lung from collapsing and allows it to expand fully as the patient breathes.

This positioning also minimizes the risk of complications, such as the development of a pneumothorax, by promoting optimal lung mechanics and encouraging the re-establishment of normal breathing patterns. It allows for better ventilation of the lung that has not been treated, ensuring the patient can breathe more effectively.

On the other hand, positioning on the affected side would counteract the purpose of the procedure by exerting pressure on the lung that may need support and time to reinflate properly. Other positions, such as a sitting position, may not provide the same level of facilitation for lung expansion as positioning on the unaffected side does.