After Care for Breast Core Biopsy for Patients from a Correctional Facility
Results
Your biopsy results should be ready within a week. The provider who ordered the exam will give you the results.
Care of the site
- Apply ice to the area for 20-30 minutes, at least 3 times the day of the biopsy and then as needed. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Wear a good support bra for 24-48 hours. A sports bra works well.
- You may remove the gauze bandage the next day. The thin strips of tape will loosen and come off on their own in about 7 -10 days. If they are still in place after 7 days, you may gently peel them off.
- You may shower the next morning.
Signs of infection
If any of these symptoms occur, tell your facility nurse.
- Temperature over 100.4° F for two readings taken 4 hours apart.
- Significant swelling, firmness, or warmth.
- Increased redness.
- Pus around the site.
- Heavy bleeding from the site. Bleeding continues to soak the gauze even after applying ice and holding pressure over the site for 15 minutes.
Comfort
You may have some discomfort and bruising. It should go away in 5-7 days. For comfort, you may take Tylenol® for the first 24 hours, if you do not have liver problems. You may resume taking aspirin or ibuprofen 24 hours after the biopsy (if no signs of bleeding) or as directed by your provider.
Activity
Avoid vigorous arm movements and heavy lifting for the first 24 hours. You may resume your normal routine the next day.
Blood Thinners
If you take Coumadin®, aspirin, or other blood thinners, you may resume these 24 hours after the biopsy (if no signs of bleeding) or as directed
If you took an anti-anxiety medicine before this procedure, do NOT drive for 6 hours. Do NOT drink alcohol, take a muscle relaxant, or mood-altering medicines for 24 hours.
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: 11/05/2012
Copyright © 11/05/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6891
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