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Caring for Your Child after a Liver Biopsy

What to Expect

 

  • After the numbing medicine wears off, your child may feel some mild pain.
  • A pressure dressing will be applied to the biopsy site.  You may remove the dressing the next day, and if needed, apply a Band aid®.

 

At Home

 

  • An adult must stay with the child for the first 16 hours after the child goes home.

 

  • Your child should not drive today, if she is old enough to drive.

 

  • Rest today.  Do not do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1 week.

 

  • Your child may resume her routine medicines unless told otherwise. 

 

  • Your child may resume her normal diet.

 

  • There may be some soreness or redness at the IV site for a day or two.  You can relieve this by placing a warm, moist washcloth over the area.  Please contact your child’s primary doctor if this does not improve in a couple of days.

 

  • Do not make any important decisions or return to school today.

 

When to call us

 

  • If your child has a new pain or pain that is getting worse.
  • If you have any questions about your child once you are at home.

 

If your child has a severe pain, problems breathing, or dizziness while at home, go to your nearest Emergency Room right away.

 

Phone Numbers

 

Doctor _____________________

 

Pediatric GI Clinic, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (608) 263-6420

 

After clinic hours, this number is answered by the paging operator.  Ask for the Pediatric Gastroenterology (GI) doctor on call.  Leave your name and phone number with the area code.  The doctor will call you back.

 

If you live out of the area, call1-800-323-8942.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 08/26/2011

Copyright © 08/26/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6822

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