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Multiple Choice
What is the nurse's priority action in caring for a client who has just had a liver biopsy?
A
Position the client on their right side to apply pressure to the biopsy site.
B
Monitor the client's vital signs every 15 minutes for the first hour.
C
Encourage the client to ambulate to prevent blood clots.
D
Administer pain medication as prescribed.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of positioning the client on their right side: After a liver biopsy, positioning the client on their right side helps apply pressure to the biopsy site, which can reduce the risk of bleeding. This is a critical step in post-procedure care.
Monitor vital signs: Regular monitoring of the client's vital signs is essential to detect any signs of complications such as bleeding or infection. The nurse should check the vital signs every 15 minutes for the first hour following the procedure.
Assess for pain and administer medication: Pain management is important after a liver biopsy. The nurse should assess the client's pain level and administer prescribed pain medication to ensure comfort.
Encourage rest and limit activity: Initially, the client should rest to allow the biopsy site to heal properly. Ambulation should be encouraged later, but not immediately after the procedure, to prevent complications.
Educate the client: Provide the client with information about signs of complications to watch for, such as increased pain, fever, or bleeding, and instruct them on when to seek medical attention.