General Diagnostic Tests Flashcards
In a Lumbar puncture, where is the puncture site ?
Lumbar subarachnoid space
What are the purposes of a Lumbar Puncture ?
- Obtain CSF to analyze for blood, infection, and even tumor cells
- Measure pressure readings with a manometer and reduce CSF pressure
- Administer drugs intrathecally (into the spinal canal)
How is the client positioned for a Lumbar Puncture ?
- Propped up over the bedside table with head down (sitting or standing)
- A lot of arch to the back (opens up the space between the vertebrae)
- Like an angry cat - On side in the fetal position (chin to chest and knees flexed)
(need to help hold client. - Safety!)
With a Lumbar Puncture what do you want to inspect ? and why ?
Inspect the surrounding skin at the puncture site for any infection
What should CSF look like ?
Clear and Colorless (looks like water)
What do you want to do Post-procedure after a Lumbar Puncture ?
- Lie flat or prone for 4-8 hours (to seal the area)
- Increase fluids
- Watch for headache (most common complication)
Why do you want to increase fluids post-procedure from a Lumbar puncture ?
To replace lost spinal fluid and reduce the risks of complications
(watch for CSF leafing after)
What is the most common complication of a Lumbar Puncture ?
Headache
The pain from a Headache after a lumbar puncture increases when and decreases when ?
The pain of this headache INCREASES when the client sits up or stands up and DECREASES when they lie down
How is a Headache from a Lumbar puncture treated ?
- Bed rest
- Fluids
- Meds
- Blood patch
(dry blood from client & insert where they did the procedure in order to create an instant seal)
Anytime there is a procedure with spinal fluid what is needed ?
Need fluids! (can be PO or IV)
What are Big Complications with Lumbar Punctures ?
- Brain Herniation (With known increased ICP, a LP is contraindicated)
- Infection
Can bacteria get into the LP site ?
Can bacteria get into the spinal fluid ?
What would that cause ?
Yes
Yes
Meningitis
