Layering On Lateral Decubitus in Medicine / Internal Medicine — 71yo Man | Respiratory / Pulmonology | SMLE Q#12076
SMLE Question #12076
Medicine / Internal Medicine
Respiratory / Pulmonology
Objective: OBJ-123
Last updated: February 2026
A 71-year-old man was hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia 10 days ago and discharged on oral antibiotics. He now has 5 days of worsening dyspnea and low-grade fever. Chest examination shows decreased tactile fremitus, dullness to percussion, and markedly reduced breath sounds over the lower third of the right hemithorax. Chest radiograph shows a moderate right pleural effusion with layering on lateral decubitus view and residual right lower lobe consolidation. What is the most appropriate next step in management?
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