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. The 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 or to check for cancer.

Home care

Rest for 24 to 48 hours.
Don’t drive for 24 to 48 hours.
Don’t shower for 24 hours. If you wish, you may wash with a sponge or washcloth. When you are able to shower, don’t 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.
Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 3 to 4 days.
Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work. Tell them if your job involves heavy lifting.
If you take blood-thinner medicine (anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicine) and you stopped taking it a few days before your procedure, ask when you can take it again.