What is the appropriate intervention for respiratory distress suspected to be caused by pleural effusion?

When respiratory distress is suspected to be caused by pleural effusion, the most appropriate intervention is to perform chest aspiration with a syringe. This procedure, also known as thoracentesis, involves using a syringe and a needle to remove excess fluid from the pleural space. This intervention is critical as pleural effusion can significantly impair respiratory function due to compression of lung tissue, reducing lung expansion and causing difficulty in breathing. By removing the fluid, it alleviates the pressure, allowing the lungs to expand more effectively, which can improve respiratory mechanics and oxygenation.

Providing supplemental oxygen can help address hypoxia, but it does not address the underlying issue of fluid causing the respiratory distress. Inserting a nasogastric tube is typically performed to manage feeding or decompression of the stomach, which is not relevant in this scenario. While mechanical ventilation may be necessary in severe cases of respiratory failure, it would not be the first line of intervention when a pleural effusion is suspected; first, the effusion should be addressed directly through aspiration.