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Warning-sign checks

Percutaneous kidney procedures: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, uncontrollable bleeding, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your procedure team urgently if you develop:

    • Fever or chills
    • Increasing pain, redness, swelling, pus, or leakage at the site
    • Bright red urine, large clots, or bleeding that is increasing
    • Much less urine than expected
    • A nephrostomy that stops draining, falls out, or becomes disconnected
    • Persistent vomiting or inability to drink
    • New shortness of breath

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Mention symptoms that continue or concern you at routine follow-up, even if they are not urgent.

The article also says

Mild soreness, a small spot of blood on the dressing, or lightly pink urine may be expected early in recovery.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Percutaneous kidney procedures. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.