What is one of the most important factors to monitor following a kidney biopsy?

What is one of the most important factors to monitor following a kidney biopsy?

• A. Electrolyte levels
• B. Renal function tests
• C. Signs of infection
• D. Post-procedural bleeding

Answer: (D)

Monitoring for post-procedural bleeding is crucial following a kidney biopsy because this procedural risk can lead to significant complications if not addressed promptly. During a kidney biopsy, a needle is used to extract tissue from the kidney, which can potentially damage blood vessels and lead to bleeding. This bleeding can occur internally and may not always be immediately apparent. Recognizing signs of post-biopsy bleeding, such as a significant drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or changes in hemoglobin levels, allows for swift medical intervention. Early detection can prevent serious outcomes, such as hemorrhage requiring transfusion or additional surgical intervention. While electrolyte levels, renal function tests, and signs of infection are also important to monitor for patient safety and recovery, they are typically of less immediate concern in the context of complications directly related to the biopsy procedure itself. Prioritizing the detection of bleeding helps optimize patient outcomes and ensures that any necessary interventions can be performed quickly.

Monitoring for post-procedural bleeding is crucial following a kidney biopsy because this procedural risk can lead to significant complications if not addressed promptly. During a kidney biopsy, a needle is used to extract tissue from the kidney, which can potentially damage blood vessels and lead to bleeding. This bleeding can occur internally and may not always be immediately apparent.

Recognizing signs of post-biopsy bleeding, such as a significant drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or changes in hemoglobin levels, allows for swift medical intervention. Early detection can prevent serious outcomes, such as hemorrhage requiring transfusion or additional surgical intervention.

While electrolyte levels, renal function tests, and signs of infection are also important to monitor for patient safety and recovery, they are typically of less immediate concern in the context of complications directly related to the biopsy procedure itself. Prioritizing the detection of bleeding helps optimize patient outcomes and ensures that any necessary interventions can be performed quickly.