A client is admitted with suspected meningitis, and the healthcare provider orders a lumbar puncture to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis. Which of the following statements is accurate regarding this procedure?
"The lumbar puncture involves the insertion of a catheter into the blood vessels near the spine to collect CSF.”
"The lumbar puncture is done to assess the presence of bacterial or viral infections in the CSF.”
"The lumbar puncture is a painful procedure and requires general anesthesia.”
"During the lumbar puncture, you will be asked to bend your neck forward to facilitate the insertion of the catheter.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect. A lumbar puncture involves the insertion of a needle, not a catheter, into the subarachnoid space of the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) It is not done in blood vessels.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is accurate. A lumbar puncture is performed to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid for analysis. It helps to diagnose and differentiate between bacterial and viral meningitis based on CSF characteristics, such as cell count, glucose levels, and presence of bacteria or viruses.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. A lumbar puncture is uncomfortable but is typically not an extremely painful procedure. It is often done with local anesthesia, and the discomfort is usually temporary.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect. During a lumbar puncture, the patient is usually asked to curl up in a fetal position, bringing the knees close to the chest and the chin to the chest. This position helps to widen the spaces between the spinal bones, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the subarachnoid space. It does not involve bending the neck forward.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A blood culture is a test used to detect bacteria or other microorganisms in the bloodstream. While it can be helpful in diagnosing bacterial infections, it is not the most important test for confirming meningitis. The presence of bacteria in the blood does not necessarily confirm meningitis, as the infection may not have spread to the bloodstream yet.
Choice B rationale:
A throat swab is used to collect samples from the throat to identify infections such as strep throat. While throat infections can sometimes lead to complications like meningitis, a throat swab is not the most important test for confirming the diagnosis of meningitis. The infection may not be present in the throat, and direct examination of cerebrospinal fluid is necessary to confirm meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is the most important laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis of meningitis. It involves collecting a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the space around the spinal cord and brain. Analysis of the CSF can reveal the presence of bacteria or other pathogens, increased white blood cells, and other indicators of meningitis.
Choice D rationale:
A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. While it can help identify structural abnormalities in the brain, such as bleeding or tumors, it is not the primary test for confirming meningitis. CT scans may show signs of inflammation, but they cannot definitively diagnose meningitis or distinguish between bacterial, viral, or fungal causes.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Amphotericin B is an antifungal drug that may be used to treat fungal meningitis. It is effective against a wide range of fungal pathogens and is often considered the drug of choice for severe systemic fungal infections, including fungal meningitis.
Choice B rationale:
Fluconazole is another antifungal drug used to treat fungal meningitis. It is effective against certain types of fungi, especially Candida species, which are known to cause fungal meningitis in some cases.
Choice E rationale:
Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal medication that is also used to treat fungal meningitis. It is particularly effective against Aspergillus species, which can cause invasive fungal infections, including meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Albendazole is an antiparasitic drug and is not used to treat fungal meningitis. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of parasitic infections, such as certain types of worms.
Choice D rationale:
Ivermectin is another antiparasitic drug and is not used in the treatment of fungal meningitis. It is commonly used to treat various parasitic infections but has no activity against fungal pathogens.
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