Punch Biopsy

  • Goggles
  • Sterile gloves
  • Chlorhexidine (or other approved skin cleanser)
  • Sterile gauze
  • Local anesthetic, syringe, needle (see chapter titled “Local  Anesthetic” for full procedure)
  • An appropriately sized punch biopsy tool
    • 2mm size is only to be used where scarring is a concern, as the small amount of tissue may lead to misdiagnosis
  • Scissors or scalpel (to cut specimen free from subcutaneous tissue)
  • Laceration tray (needle holder, forceps, scissors, hemostat) and drapes.
  • Suture material (see chapter titled “Suturing of Uncomplicated Lacerations” for full procedure)
  • Topical antibiotic ointment
  • Cotton-tipped applicator
  • Absorbent dressing such as Mepore
  • Labeled specimen container with formalin

 

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Advanced Procedural Skills Copyright © 2018 by Brittany Stephenson NP, BScN, MN is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.