Spinal Tap: Preparation & What to Expect

A spinal tap, or lumbar puncture, is a medical procedure that involves inserting a hollow needle into the spinal canal to collect spinal fluid. The fluid is used to test for a variety of neurological disorders or to decrease pressure for patients with intracranial hypertension or normal pressure hydrocephalus. Preparing for a spinal tap is about mental preparation as well as physical preparation. It's important to remain calm and arrange your day around the procedure.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink plenty of fluids the night before to remain hydrated, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Eat a light a breakfast the day of your procedure.

• 2

  Take your medications as usual. If you are taking a blood thinning medication such as aspirin or an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen call your doctor and ask when to stop taking these medications.

• 3

  Plan to spend two to three hours at the doctor's office. Numbing and preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, the procedure itself takes a few minutes and the rest of time is spent lying flat to promote clotting for 30 minutes to two hours.

• 4

  Arrange for a designated driver or taxi to take you home following the procedure.

• 5

  Wear loose fitting, cotton clothing for comfort following the procedure.