Which of the following is the reason to perform a spinal tap on a client newly diagnosed with leukemia?
A. To assess for central nervous system infiltration
B. To aid in classification of the leukemia
C. To rule out meningitis
D. To decrease intracranial pressure
Correct Answer: A. To assess for central nervous system infiltration
Option A: A spinal tap is performed to check if leukemia has infiltrated into the central nervous system specifically to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Options B and D: It wouldn’t be done to decrease ICP nor does it aid in the classification of leukemia. Spinal taps can result in brain stem herniation in cases of ICP.
Option C: A spinal tap can be done to rule out meningitis but this isn’t the indication for the test on a leukemic client.