Lumbar puncture, also known as spinal tap, is an invasive procedure where a hollow needle is inserted into the space surrounding the subarachnoid space in the lower back to obtain samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for qualitative analysis.
Most of the disorders of the central nervous system are diagnosed in relation to the changes in the composition and dynamics of the CSF. A lumbar puncture may also be used to measure CSF, instill medications, or introduce contrast medium into the spinal canal. The procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes and can be done on an outpatient basis at a hospital or clinic. One of the responsibilities of the
nurse during a lumbar puncture is to provide information and instructions before, during and after the procedure. It will decrease fear and
anxiety among the patient and their families, and it will also lessen the occurrence of potential complications post-lumbar puncture. IndicationLumbar puncture is indicated for the following reasons:
ContraindicationAbsolute contraindication for lumbar puncture are as follows:
EquipmentThe lumbar puncture kit contains:
ProcedureThe step-by-step procedure for a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is as follows:
Nursing Responsibility for Lumbar PunctureThe following are the nursing interventions and nursing care considerations for a patient indicated for lumbar puncture: Before the procedureThe following are the nursing interventions prior to a lumbar puncture:
After the procedureThe nurse should note of the following nursing interventions post-lumbar puncture:
Normal ResultsCSF samples for analysis with normal values typically range as follows:
Abnormal ResultsThese are the abnormal findings that can be found in CSF analysis:
ComplicationsThe possible complications after a lumbar puncture are:
GalleryImages related to lumbar puncture: ReferencesAdditional resources and references for this guide:
Paul Martin is a registered nurse with a bachelor of science in nursing since 2007. Having worked as a medical-surgical nurse for five years, he handled different kinds of patients and learned how to provide individualized care to them. Now, his experiences working in the hospital is carried over to his writings to help aspiring students achieve their goals. He is currently working as a nursing instructor and have a particular interest in nursing management, emergency care, critical care, infection control, and public health. As a writer at Nurseslabs, his goal is to impart his clinical knowledge and skills to students and nurses helping them become the best version of themselves and ultimately make an impact in uplifting the nursing profession. How do you take care of after spinal surgery?Activity. Take only short walks for the first 2 weeks after surgery. ... . You may go up or down stairs once a day for the first 1 or 2 weeks, if it does not cause much pain or discomfort.. Do not start swimming, golfing, running, or other more strenuous activities until you see your doctor.. How do you move a patient after spinal surgery?Walking and Moving After Spinal Fusion Surgery
Even getting out of bed requires a special technique—known as log-rolling—to avoid twisting the spine. In some cases, the physical therapist may advise the patient to use a walker for stability.
What is the nursing management of spinal cord injury?Nursing care planning and goals for patients with spinal cord injuries include: maximizing respiratory function, preventing injury to the spinal cord, promote mobility and/or independence, prevent or minimize complications, support psychological adjustment of patient and/or SO, and providing information about the ...
How do you care for a spinal cord injury patient?If you suspect someone has a spinal injury:. Get help. Call 911 or emergency medical help.. Keep the person still. Place heavy towels or rolled sheets on both sides of the neck or hold the head and neck to prevent movement.. Avoid moving the head or neck. ... . Keep helmet on. ... . Don't roll alone.. |