Question

A 4-month-old child is admitted with a tentative diagnosis of meningitis. To confirm the diagnosis, a lumbar puncture (LP) is ordered. While assisting the physician with the procedure, it is MOST important for the nurse to take which of the following actions?

1) Appropriately restrain the child.
2) Instruct the parents about the procedure.
3) Provide support to the child.
4) Elevate the head of the bed.

Answer 1

The nurse's most important action while assisting with a lumbar puncture (LP) procedure for a 4-month-old child with a tentative diagnosis of meningitis is to appropriately restrain the child.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's most important action while assisting with a lumbar puncture (LP) procedure for a 4-month-old child with a tentative diagnosis of meningitis is to appropriately restrain the child. This is necessary to ensure the safety of the child and the success of the procedure. Restraining the child helps prevent movement that could interfere with the procedure and cause potential harm.