What is the purpose of thoracentesis?

The purpose of thoracentesis is specifically to remove fluids from the chest wall, which is accurately reflected in the correct answer. This medical procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall to extract excess fluid that may have accumulated due to various conditions, such as infections, heart failure, or cancer. By removing this fluid, thoracentesis can help relieve symptoms like difficulty breathing and can provide diagnostic information through analysis of the fluid.

In contrast, administering medication does not directly relate to the primary goal of thoracentesis, as this procedure is not typically conducted with the intention of delivering drugs. Performing a biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination, which is a different procedure than thoracentesis. Controlling bleeding is also not the main function of thoracentesis, as it focuses on fluid removal rather than hemostasis. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the specific role that thoracentesis plays in medical practice.