What intervention is used for a patient with suspected pleural effusion?

In the context of a patient with suspected pleural effusion, needle decompression is a relevant intervention particularly when the effusion is large enough to compromise respiratory function or when there is a need for rapid relief of pressure within the pleural space. The procedure typically involves the insertion of a needle or catheter into the pleural space to remove excess fluid or air that is accumulating, which can alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

While other interventions such as chest physiotherapy, bronchodilators, and oxygen therapy may be supportive in managing respiratory conditions, they do not directly address the issue presented by a significant pleural effusion. Chest physiotherapy might help mobilize secretions in certain respiratory conditions but wouldn't effectively reduce pleural fluid. Bronchodilator administration is related to conditions such as asthma or COPD but is not indicated for pleural effusion specifically. Oxygen therapy is beneficial for hypoxia but does not treat the underlying problem of fluid accumulation in the pleural space. Thus, for a patient with suspected pleural effusion, needle decompression is the targeted intervention to relieve the immediate issue of fluid or air in the pleura.