Lumbar Puncture

In this lesson, we will discuss the purpose of a lumbar puncture along with some disorders that it can help confirm the diagnosis of.  We will also look at some potential complications of the procedure that nurses will need to monitor for. Finally, we will review the important role the nurse plays before, during, and after this procedure in preventing complications.  Nursing interventions and assessments will be focused on safety and infection prevention.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Explain the purpose of a lumbar puncture
2. List disorders a lumbar puncture aids in diagnosing
3. Identify priority nursing interventions for before, during, and after a lumbar puncture to prevent complication
4. Select potential complications of a lumbar puncture
5. Describe the appearance of normal cerebral spinal fluid