MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

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NEUROLOGY

SURGERY

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
The nurse is assisting with a lumbar puncture and observes that when the health care provider obtains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), it is clear and colorless. What is the significance of this finding?
A
A subarachnoid hemorrhage
B
Severe sepsis
C
A normal finding; the fluid will be sent for testing to determine other factors
D
Local trauma from the insertion of the needle
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -One of the responsibilities of the nurse during a lumbar puncture is to provide information and instructions before, during and after the procedure. It will decrease fear and anxiety among the patient and their families, and it will also lessen the occurrence of potential complications post-lumbar puncture.

Detailed explanation-2: -CSF is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). During the procedure, a needle is inserted usually between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae and the CSF fluid is collected for testing. There are 5 lumbar vertebrae located in the lower back.

Detailed explanation-3: -Xanthochromia is the presence of bilirubin in the CSF. This finding can be the only positive marker that a patient is suffering from an acute SAH.

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