Identify the procedure done by the health care professional in the image below:

AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Applied Anatomy

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Explanation

The image clearly depicts a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), a procedure where a needle is inserted into the lumbar subarachnoid space.
This procedure is specifically performed to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis, measure CSF pressure, or administer medications.
The anatomical location shown (lower back) is the standard site for accessing CSF, which circulates around the brain and spinal cord.

Option B: Pleural fluid is located in the space between the lungs and the chest wall.
Option C: 'Cerebral fluid' is not a standard medical term. The correct term for the fluid surrounding the brain (cerebrum) and spinal cord is cerebrospinal fluid.
Option D: Peritoneal fluid is located in the abdominal cavity (the space surrounding the abdominal organs).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Identification of body fluids based on the collection procedure shown in an image to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
A nurse's role during a lumbar puncture is critical. It includes explaining the procedure, obtaining consent, positioning the patient correctly to maximize intervertebral space, assisting the physician, and ensuring sterile technique is maintained.
Post-procedure, the nurse monitors the patient for complications such as a post-lumbar puncture headache (caused by CSF leakage), infection, or bleeding. Encouraging fluid intake and keeping the patient flat for a prescribed period can help prevent headaches.
Proper handling of CSF specimens is vital. The nurse must ensure the tubes are correctly labeled in the order of collection and sent to the lab immediately, as delays can alter test results.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully analyze the image provided. Identify the anatomical location where the procedure is being performed (in this case, the lower back or lumbar region).
Next, identify the action being performed. A needle is being inserted, which suggests a fluid collection or injection.
Recall or deduce the name of the procedure based on the location and action. A needle insertion in the lumbar spine is a lumbar puncture or spinal tap.
Connect the procedure to its purpose. A lumbar puncture is done to access and collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Evaluate the given options. Match your conclusion (collection of cerebrospinal fluid) with the choices.
Eliminate incorrect options by considering the collection sites for other fluids: Pleural fluid from the chest, Peritoneal fluid from the abdomen, and recognizing 'Cerebral fluid' as an incorrect term.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of body fluids based on the collection procedure shown in an image.
Stem keywords: procedure, health care professional, image
Lead-in keywords: Identify
Clinical cues: Image shows a needle inserted into the lumbar region of the back, which is a key indicator of a lumbar puncture.

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