The accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity is called?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

Empyema is the specific medical term for the collection of pus (purulent fluid) within the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall.
This condition is a type of pleural effusion and is most commonly a complication of bacterial pneumonia or a lung abscess.
The presence of pus distinguishes empyema from other types of fluid or air accumulation in the pleural space.

Option B: Hemothorax is the accumulation of blood in the pleural space, not pus.
Option C: Pneumothorax is the presence of air or gas in the pleural space, which can lead to a collapsed lung. It is not a fluid accumulation.
Option D: Hydrothorax is the accumulation of serous (clear, watery) fluid in the pleural space. This fluid is not purulent (pus).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Terminology for Pleural Cavity Accumulations as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Differentiating between types of pleural effusions is critical for nursing assessment and patient management. The cause determines the treatment, which can range from diuretics for hydrothorax to urgent chest tube drainage and antibiotics for empyema.
A nurse caring for a patient with a chest tube for empyema must monitor the drainage for color, consistency, and amount. Thick, purulent drainage confirms empyema, and a decrease in drainage with improved respiratory status indicates effective treatment.
What if? If a patient's chest tube drains bright red blood instead of pus, the diagnosis shifts from empyema to hemothorax. The nursing priority changes to monitoring for hemodynamic instability (hypotension, tachycardia) and preparing for potential surgical intervention to stop the bleeding.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'accumulation of pus' and 'pleural cavity'.
Next, review the options and recall the definition for each term related to the pleural space.
Match the definition to the term. 'Empyema' specifically means pus in a body cavity, most commonly the pleural space.
To solidify your knowledge, create a mental or physical table that differentiates the prefixes: 'pyo-' (pus), 'hemo-' (blood), 'pneumo-' (air), and 'hydro-' (water/serous fluid).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 2 p. 3-5

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 584-586

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