Discharge Instructions for Kidney Biopsy

You had a procedure called a kidney biopsy. Your healthcare provider used a needle to remove a small piece of tissue from your kidney. This tissue will be checked for signs of damage and disease. A kidney biopsy is done if other tests have shown that there may be a problem with your kidney. A kidney biopsy is also done if a healthcare provider thinks you may have kidney disease and to check for cancer.

Home care

• Rest for 24 to 48 hours. Get up only to use the bathroom.
• Do not drive for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
• Do not shower for 24 hours after the biopsy. If you wish, you may wash with a sponge or washcloth.
• When you are able to shower, do not scrub the site. Gently wash the area and pat it dry.
• Remove the bandage from the biopsy site 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
• Do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 kg) for 3 to 4 days after the procedure.
• Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work. Be sure to tell them if your job involves heavy lifting.
• Do not take any NSAID medications like ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or aspirin
• If you take blood thinner medicines (anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines) and you stopped taking these medicines a few days before your procedure, ask your healthcare provider when you can start taking them again.

© The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.