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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: LUMBAR PUNCTURE LUMBAR PUNCTURE FOR A NEWBORN POSITIONS FOR LUMBAR PUNCTURE SITE OF LUMBAR PUNCTURE ReferencesAdditional resources and references for this guide:
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