You are caring for a client who just had a percutaneous renal biopsy. Which of the following nursing actions has the highest priority?

Explanation

• In a percutaneous renal biopsy, a large needle is inserted directly into the abdomen or flank, and there is a risk of bleeding from the puncture site or any blood vessels in the highly vascular area.

• Pressure should be applied to the biopsy needle entry site for at least 20 minutes. Vital signs are also monitored for signs of internal bleeding.

• Hematuria, hemoglobin, and hematocrit are important to monitor after a renal biopsy, but priority should be placed on preventing bleeding from the biopsy site.

• Pain management in the first 20 minutes is not a priority because local anesthetic is used, but becomes important after this time is up.

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