(6)
Explain to the patient events which will occur during the skull x-ray
procedure.
(a) Patient will be placed in a supine position on a radiographic table,
or seated in a chair, and instructed to remain still.
(b) A headband, foam pads, or sandbags may be used to immobilize
the patient's head and increase patient comfort.
(c) Tell the patient that several (usually five) x-ray films of the skull will
be taken from various angles.
(d) Reassure patient that the procedure will cause no discomfort.
(e) Films will be developed and checked before patient leaves the
x-ray department.
(7)
Explain to the patient events, which will occur after the procedure.
(a) Patient will be returned to his/her room.
(b) Physician will report the results of the x-rays to the patient when
they are available.
2-18. LUMBAR PUNCTURE
a. Lumbar puncture is the insertion of a sterile needle into the subarachnoid
space of the spinal canal, usually between the third and fourth vertebra, to reach the
cerebral spinal fluid. This test requires sterile technique and careful patient positioning.
It is performed therapeutically to administer drugs or anesthetics and to relieve
intracranial pressure.
b. Diagnostic uses for lumbar puncture:
(1)
To determine the pressure of the cerebral spinal fluid.
(2)
To detect increased intracranial pressure.
(3) To detect presence of blood in the cerebral spinal fluid which indicates
cerebral hemorrhage.
(4)
To obtain cerebral spinal fluid specimens for laboratory analysis.
MD0919
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