Sunshine, age 13, has had a lumbar puncture to examine the CSF to determine if bacterial infection exists. The best position to keep her in after the procedure is:
A. Prone for two hours to prevent aspiration, should she vomit.
B. Semi-Fowler’s so she can watch TV for five hours and be entertained.
C. Supine for several hours, to prevent a headache.
D. On her right side to encourage return of CSF
Correct Answer: C. Supine for several hours, to prevent a headache.
Lying flat keeps the patient from having a “spinal headache.” Increasing the fluid intake will assist in replenishing the lost fluid during this time. Approximately 10% to 20% of people develop a spinal headache (one that worsens when sitting or standing).
Option A: Once a spinal tap is completed, the patient will be instructed to lie flat. The time spent flat after the tap will vary depending on why the patient received the procedure.
Option B: If the patient has a headache, she should lay down as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids. They should contact a health care provider if the headache persists.
Option D: Lumbar puncture is performed by withdrawing fluid surrounding the spinal cord (called the cerebrospinal fluid or CSF). Keeping the patient on the right side would not encourage a return of CSF.