The intervention that the nurse performs immediately after a lumbar puncture is to apply brief pressure to the lumbar puncture site to avoid bleeding.
The lumbar puncture site is then covered by a small occlusive dressing or bandage and then the patient is placed flat on the bed.
You can shower after a lumbar puncture but you have to wait at least 24 hours before showering or bathing after the lumbar puncture.
Also for 24 hours after the lumbar puncture you need to avoid any bending down, sudden movements or strenuous activity and take any and all medications as normal.
After a lumbar puncture you'll need to stay at the hospital for around 1 to 2 hours to be monitored.
You'll also need to lie flat on your back and rest.
If you're having the lumbar puncture done as an outpatient, you should be able to go home after a few hours.
Headache is a frequent problem following cervical or lumbar puncture.
Most doctors recommend bed rest to prevent headache.
Bed rest, ranging from a few hours up to 24 hours, is frequently used in several countries after lumbar punctures.
Drinking extra fluids, taking pain medicine, and lying down for several hours after the lumbar puncture procedure can help the headache be less severe.
Some people also have trouble sleeping for a day or two after the lumbar puncture.
The fluid taken during a spinal tap is often sent to a lab for tests.
Your doctor or nurse will call you with the test results.
After a lumbar puncture, the doctors will give you instructions to take care of yourself.
This may include not driving or operating heavy machinery for 24 hours.
Lying on your back or side for at least one hour to a few hours.