Paracentesis apparatus providing increased fluid transfer capacity, comprising a single centesis needle and at least two vacuum sources. The centesis needle is connected to the vacuum sources by a conduit which is split to form a flow path to each vacuum source. The conduit may comprise flexible tubing, and may include an in-line valve and a connector for engaging the vacuum sources. The vacuum sources may comprise evacuated bottles. Albumin may be administered to patients undergoing paracentesis.