How to care for patients undergoing paracentesis for the drainage of ascites
This practical module will help you to enhance your knowledge of the procedure involved in paracentesis for the drainage of ascites, the role of the nurse in paracentesis and monitoring the patient during the procedure, and the complications that may occur during paracentesis. Learning aims and intended outcomes After completing this module, you should be able to: Describe the procedure involved in paracentesis for the drainage of ascites. Understand your role as a nurse during ascitic drain insertion and removal. Know how to monitor the patient throughout the procedure. Recognise the complications that may occur during paracentesis. Disclaimer Please note that information provided by RCNi Learning is not sufficient to ensure competence in the skill. Assessment of competence should take place in line with local practice. Practice should always align with local protocols and procedures, latest guidelines and any regulatory code. All modules should currently be viewed together with available national and local Covid-19 guidelines. For advice, go to www.rcn.org.uk/covid-19
Resource last reviewed
26 Mar 2025
