What are key nursing steps immediately after a bone marrow biopsy?

• A. Apply direct pressure to the biopsy site, monitor for bleeding and infection, manage pain, and position the patient appropriately.
• B. Begin vigorous massage over the biopsy site to promote healing.
• C. Remove pressure immediately to check heartbeat.
• D. Keep patient standing to prevent dizziness.

Answer: (A)

Immediately after a bone marrow biopsy, focus on stopping bleeding, preventing infection, and controlling pain while keeping the patient safe and comfortable. Apply direct pressure with a sterile gauze over the biopsy site, then secure a dressing and continue to monitor the site for any oozing or hematoma. Regularly check vital signs and watch for signs of infection such as fever, redness, warmth, or drainage. Provide analgesia as prescribed and offer comfort measures to ease pain. Keep the patient in a resting position, typically supine, and avoid activities that strain the site until the protocol allows. These steps minimize bleeding risk and support early detection of complications.

Massaging the site isn’t appropriate because it can disrupt the clot and lead to renewed bleeding. Removing pressure to check a heartbeat or standing up after the procedure can increase bleeding risk or cause dizziness; these actions contradict the need to maintain stability and hemostasis.