A client had a lumbar puncture and the report came back as follows: glucose 70 mg/dl, protein 32 mg/dl, opening pressure 230 mm H₂O, cells 100. The priority action by the nurse would be to A) administer IV diuretics. B) monitor the client's blood pressure every 15 minutes for an hour. C) place the client in Trendelenburg position. D) prepare to administer IV antibiotics.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high opening pressure (normal 70-180 mm H₂O) and the high number of cells (normal 1-5) indicate infection in the CSF or brain, which can be life-threatening. Treatment is immediate IV antibiotics. The other two findings are normal.

A Client Had a Lumbar Puncture and the Report Came