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StatPearls, LLC

  • Dyspnea
  • Echocardiography
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Pericardial Effusion
  • Pericardiocentesis

Pericardiocentesis

Pericardiocentesis is a critical procedure performed to diagnose and treat pericardial effusions, including life-threatening cardiac tamponade. Evacuating fluid from the pericardial sac restores normal cardiac function and relieves symptoms such as dyspnea and hemodynamic instability. The procedure, typically performed under echocardiographic or fluoroscopic guidance, minimizes complications by ensuring precise needle placement and avoiding injury to vital structures. While generally safe in skilled hands, pericardiocentesis carries risks such as chamber laceration, coronary artery injury, and infection, highlighting the importance of expertise in its performance. Mastery of this procedure is essential for cardiologists and other clinicians managing complex cardiovascular conditions, as it provides both therapeutic relief and diagnostic insights into underlying etiologies. This course provides clinicians with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to safely and effectively perform pericardiocentesis. Participants gain a thorough understanding of pericardial anatomy, physiology, and the pathophysiology of pericardial effusions, alongside step-by-step guidance on procedural techniques. The course emphasizes using imaging modalities such as echocardiography and fluoroscopy, enhancing precision and reducing procedural risks. Additionally, clinicians learn to manage complications, interpret pericardial fluid analysis, and integrate findings into patient care. By completing this course, participants develop confidence and proficiency in this life-saving procedure, ensuring improved patient outcomes in emergency and elective settings.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 11 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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