Discharge Instructions for Lung Biopsy
You had a procedure called lung biopsy. Your doctor used a special needle to collect tissue or fluid from your lung to examine it for signs of damage or disease. Lung biopsies are performed when lung disease is suspected and to rule out cancer. Here's what to do following the procedure.
Home Care
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Don’t drive for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
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Remove the bandage covering the biopsy site 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
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Rest for 24 to 48 hours. Get up only to use the bathroom.
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Don’t shower for 24 hours after the biopsy. If you wish, you may wash yourself with a sponge or washcloth. When you are able to shower, don’t scrub the site. Gently wash the area and pat it dry.
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Avoid coughing for 24 hours.
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Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 3 to 4 days after the procedure.
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Ask your doctor when you can return to work. Most patients are able to go back to work within 24 to 48 hours of the procedure.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
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Exhaustion or extreme weakness
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Coughing up blood
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Sudden or increased shortness of breath
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Sudden chest pain
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Fever above 100.4°F or shaking chills
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Bleeding, drainage, or an opening at the biopsy site
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Increasing redness, tenderness, or swelling at the biopsy site
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Increasing pain, with or without activity
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Date Last Reviewed:
2/3/2006
Date Last Modified:
10/18/2004