Painful thoracentesis?

[Saw29980]

I had a thoracentesis that was excruciatingly painful. After they pulled out about 700 ml, it felt like I was having a heart attack. I was crying and think I even screamed for help. All my nurse friends tried to assure me beforehand that it would be quick and easy. I know from my 15 years as a nurse that this procedure is supposed to be easy with little pain but that wasn't the case with me. They stopped the procedure because I was screaming. After it was done I asked if they got it all to which I was told yes but they didn't. I have cancer in my lung and need radiation but they won't start until this fluid is gone so looks like I have to go through this horror again. Does anyone know why this procedure would be so painful? The nurse at the hospital said it wouldn't be so bad next time because I'd know what to expect and wouldn't be so nervous. She obviously doesn't believe I was in real pain because I am more scared now. The only thing I can think of as to why this was so painful for me is that I have some broken ribs from coughing that I normally don't feel. I seem to be different from most people. Procedures that hurt other people I sail through. I have searched the Internet trying to figure out why this was so painful for me but can't find anything except for some videos of people having it done as if it were nothing. If anyone has any insight please let me know. Thanks

[adventure_rn, MSN, NP]

All my nurse friends tried to assure me beforehand that it would be quick and easy. I know from my 15 years as a nurse that this procedure is supposed to be easy with little pain but that wasn't the case with me.

I thought I learned in nursing school that they're supposed to be excruciatingly painful, and that we should advocate for appropriate pain management (granted I don't have a ton of experience with them, and most of it has been with babies).

I have searched the Internet trying to figure out why this was so painful for me but can't find anything except for some videos of people having it done as if it were nothing. If anyone has any insight please let me know. Thanks

Unfortunately per the AN terms of service, we can't provide any medical advice (even though you are a nurse). I'd definitely discuss your concerns and pain management solutions with your healthcare provider. I sincerely wish you the best of luck through your radiation process.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Saw, please discuss your concerns with your provider. We can't offer medical advice per TOS, and asking us to speculate on your situation would constitute medical advice. Best wishes.

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

THis is something that you really need to discuss with your PCP and maybe inquire on how to proceed next time.

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