After a liver biopsy, in which position should the client be placed?

Placing the client on their right side after a liver biopsy is crucial for several reasons. This positioning helps to apply pressure to the biopsy site, reducing the risk of bleeding and promoting hemostasis. The liver is located on the right side of the body, so lying on this side allows gravity to assist with any potential bleeding from the puncture site, and it also provides a natural compression effect.

Furthermore, the right side position minimizes discomfort for the patient and facilitates easier observation of any complications that may arise post-procedure. This is important for nursing staff to monitor for signs of bleeding or other adverse effects.

In contrast, the other positions do not provide the same level of pressure on the biopsy site or may complicate the monitoring of the patient's status after the procedure. Thus, positioning a patient on their right side after a liver biopsy is a critical nursing intervention to ensure safety and promote recovery.