ABSTRACT
This chapter provides information for performing paracentesis. It begins with a case scenario of a 21-year-old woman who is presented with liver failure and a distended, nontender abdomen. The chapter then includes details on indications, contraindications, and information about supplies and technique. Pearls and pitfalls are also incorporated, providing additional insights and practical advice not always available in other textbooks or articles. Monitoring the patient’s vital signs closely; hypotension can occur after the procedure from intravascular fluid shift and vagal response. Leakage of ascites from the needle insertion site can occur and is usually self-limited. Placing a suture can help occlude the tract.
