The nurse provides teaching to the client before a lumbar puncture. Which information does the nurse include in client teaching about client behavior related to the procedure?

Question

1. Verbalize complaints of pain.
2. Lie in semi-Fowler's position.
3. Remain still during procedure.
4. Restrict fluids after the testing.

Answer 1

3
2 and 3. The nurse instructs the client to maintain the lateral position and to lie with-out moving during the procedure, especially while the provider inserts the introducer or needle, because the goal is to put the needle in the subarachnoid space. Unex-pected client movement potentially leads to needle misplacement and client injury and increased risk of postprocedural headache and infection from leaking cerebros-pinal fluid. The local anesthetic injection stings and insertion of the introducer or needle potentially elicits a sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain causing clients to flinch. The nurse assists the client to maintain the position and offers reassurance and in-formation.
1. The nurse instructs the client to indicate verbally that pain is present during the procedure but not to move to indicate pain is present.
4. Although the literature does not support the use of hydration to prevent the head-aches, unless fluids are contraindicated, providers prescribe flat positioning and fluids to flush out the contrast medium from the kidneys.