Question

The nurse is assisting with a lumbar puncture and observes that when the physician obtains CSF, it is clear and colorless. What does this finding indicate?

Answer 1

A clear and colorless cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from a lumbar puncture typically indicates a normal sample without infection or hemorrhage, which is an initial visual assessment before further detailed laboratory analysis.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the physician obtains a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during a lumbar puncture and it is clear and colorless, this generally indicates that the CSF is normal and free of infection or hemorrhage. The clarity of the CSF is an initial visual assessment prior to further laboratory analysis which includes testing for cell counts, protein, glucose, and the potential presence of microorganisms via culture or Gram stain. Cloudy or discolored CSF may signify an infection such as meningitis or other conditions like subarachnoid hemorrhage.

In the provided clinical scenarios, the lumbar puncture is performed as it offers a relatively safe method to sample CSF, which is surrounded by the CNS anatomy that allows for the safe insertion of a needle. Traditionally, the needle is inserted in the lower lumbar area to avoid damage to the spinal cord, which ends above the lumbar region.