title: Thoracoscopy: nursing implications for optimal patient outcomes.
abstract: Many patients who once were considered for open chest procedures now benefit from examination and treatment of pleural disease via thoracoscopy. The thoracoscopist enters the chest cavity through small incisions through the chest wall. Procedures are performed through a video assisted thoracoscope (much like a bronchoscope or endoscope). Wound care, maintenance of the chest drainage system, pain management and vigilant assessment of the cardiorespiratory system following the procedure are integral nursing interventions when caring for these patients.
authors.affiliation: UCSD Medical Center, USA.
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Davidson
authors.forename: H G
authors.initials: HG
authors.lastname: Colt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015505:Chest Tubes; D003422:Critical Care; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D013906:Thoracoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*