After a liver biopsy, which position should the patient be placed to apply pressure on the liver and promote hemostasis?

• A. Left side lying
• B. Standing
• C. Right side lying to put pressure on the liver
• D. Sitting up

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how to promote hemostasis at the biopsy site by applying external pressure. Since the liver sits on the right side of the abdomen, placing the patient in a right-side–lying position allows the liver to press against the biopsy tract from the outside. This tamponade effect helps compress any bleeding vessels and reduces the risk of hemorrhage as the site begins to heal. Standing or sitting would not provide this external pressure, and lying on the left side would not compress the liver biopsy site effectively. Typically, the patient stays in this right-side position for several hours, with supportive pressure over the area and continuous monitoring for signs of bleeding.