Biopsy

Definition

A biopsy is the removal of a sample of living tissue for microscopic examination, most often to diagnose cancer or other pathologic processes.

Common Types

• Needle biopsy (fine-needle aspiration, core needle)
• Punch biopsy (skin)
• Incisional biopsy (partial removal)
• Excisional biopsy (complete removal)
• Endoscopic biopsy (GI, bronchoscopic)
• Bone marrow biopsy

Pre-Procedure Nursing Care

Verify informed consent, NPO status (for sedation), baseline vital signs, coagulation labs (PT/PTT/INR), and allergies. Hold anticoagulants and aspirin per provider order. Mark the correct site.

Post-Procedure Nursing Care

Monitor vital signs, check site for bleeding/hematoma, apply pressure dressing, assess pain, for liver biopsy, keep on right side for 2 to 4 hours to tamponade. For breast biopsy, apply ice packs, for bone marrow biopsy, lie on biopsy site for 30 to 60 minutes. Teach signs of infection and when to call.

NCLEX Relevance

Bleeding is the primary post-procedure concern. Liver biopsy → right-side lying. Bone marrow biopsy → pressure to site.