ASSISTINGWITH

LUMBARPUNCTURE
NursingResponsibilities

Jan Carlo B. Evangelista

Reporter
BEFORETHEPROCE
DURE
 BEFORETHEPROCEDURE
Prepare the client:
• Explain the procedure to the client and
support persons. The primary care
provider will be taking a small sample
of spinal fluid from the lower spine. A
local anesthetic will be given to
minimize the discomfort.
• Explain when and where the procedure
will occur (e.g., the bedside or the
treatment room) and who will be
 BEFORETHEPROCEDURE
• Explain that it will be necessary to lie in
a certain position without moving for
about 15 minutes. A slight pinprick will
be felt when the local anesthetic is
injected and a sensation of pressure as
the spinal needle is needed.
• Have the client empty the bladder and
bowels prior to the procedure to
prevent unnecessary discomfort.
• Position and drape the client.
BEFORETHEPROCEDURE
BEFORETHEPROCEDURE
DURINGTHEPROCED
URE
 DURINGTHEPROCEDURE

Support and monitor the client throughout:

• Stand in front of the client and support the
back of the neck and knees if the client
needs help remaining still.
• Reassure the client throughout the
procedure by explaining what is
happening. Encourage normal breathing
and relaxation.
• Observe the client’s color, respirations,
and pulse during the procedure. Ask the
client to report headache or persistent
 DURINGTHEPROCEDURE

Handle specimen tubes appropriately:

• Wear gloves when handling test
tubes.
• Label the specimen tubes in
sequence.
• Send the CSF specimens to the lab
immediately.
Place a small sterile dressing over the
puncture site.
DURINGTHEPROCEDURE
AFTERTH
E

PROCED
URE
 AFTERTHEPROCEDURE

Ensure the client’s comfort and safety:

• Assist the client to a dorsal recumbent
position with only one head pillow. The
client remains in this position for 1 to 12
hours, depending on the primary care
provider orders.
• Determine whether analgesics are ordered
and can be given for headaches.
• Offer oral fluids frequently, unless
contraindicated, to help restore the
volume of CSF.
 AFTERTHEPROCEDURE

Monitor the client:

• Observe for swelling or bleeding at
the puncture site.
• Monitor changes in neurologic status.
• Determine whether the client is
experiencing any numbness, tingling,
or pain radiating down the legs.
 AFTERTHEPROCEDURE

Document the procedure on the

patient’s chart:
• Include date and time performed; the
primary care provider’s name; the
color, character, and amount of CSF;
and the number of specimens
obtained. Also document CSF
pressure and the nurse’s
assessments and interventions.
 - END -

Thank you.ü

-cxdjIIdreamer