A 2-year-old child is being admitted to the hospital for possible bacterial meningitis. When preparing for a lumbar puncture, the nurse's best action is to:
a. prepare child for conscious sedation during the test.
b. set up a tray with equipment the same size as for adults.
c. reassure the parents that the test is simple, painless, and risk free.
d. apply EMLA to puncture site 15 minutes before procedure.
ANS: A
Because of the urgency of the child's condition, conscious sedation should be used for the procedure. Pediatric spinal trays have smaller needles than do adult trays. Reassuring the parents that the test is simple, painless, and risk free is incorrect information. A spinal tap does have associated risks, and analgesia will be given for the pain. EMLA (a eutectic mixture of anesthetics) should be applied approximately 60 minutes before the procedure. The emergency nature of the spinal tap precludes its use.
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